For many companies, their recruitment decisions may rely on the return of a DBS certificate, so it’s understandable that processing time is a key issue for employers and applicants.
To address that issue, we’ve come up with a guide to the DBS vetting process, so that employers can be clear about the process itself, why applications can take longer to process, and how employers can help to speed applications up.
What’s Involved in the DBS Vetting Process?
The level of check you request for an applicant will affect the vetting process, and also the average time is taken for the check to complete.
What can Cause Delay in the Process?
At CRB Check Online, our average turnaround time for DBS checks is just 48 hours. However, occasionally DBS checks take longer to process. This can be for a number of reasons. Below we’ve outlined some of the common reasons for delays:
Incorrect Information
One of the most common reasons for application delays is incorrect information being submitted. This often means that the DBS has to query the information submitted, which will cause delays in the process.
Local Police Delays
Sometimes the delay can be caused by the local police authorities which Enhanced DBS Check is sent to. Some police forces have backlogs on their checks, which can cause delays in the process. Fortunately, this is not usually an issue, but it’s worth bearing in mind and can help explain why some applications take longer than others.
No Clear Reason
Sometimes a check can be delayed for no apparent reason. This is likely due to delays in searches, or further investigation that’s needed. But it’s important to note that a delayed application doesn’t necessarily mean there will be anything disclosed on the certificate.
How to Speed DBS Applications Up
Bearing in mind there can be delays with DBS applications, how can you best ensure that your applications won’t take too long to process?
Some Tips for Avoiding Delays With Your DBS Checks
Ensure all the information you submit is correct, and that no information has been missed. Doing this is likely to avoid unnecessary delays and also costly mistakes, as a new certificate may be required if the information is subsequently discovered to be incorrect.
Use an Online Provider like CRB Check Online
As we process applications online, there are no postal delays, often meaning applications start vetting the same day. Answer any queries promptly. If you do receive any queries regarding the application, try to resolve them promptly. Once the correct information has been passed to the DBS, the application will often start processing again straight away.
Final Verdict
As we’ve seen, the processing time for DBS checks depends on the level of check requested, but also whether anything delays the application. With our online system, your DBS checks are likely to be processed quicker our average turnaround time for all DBS checks is just 48 hours.
However, unfortunately, applications can take longer to process. It’s worth bearing this in mind when deciding when to request a DBS check. Looking to get started requesting DBS checks? Register for free!