The root cause of the majority of DBS check delays lies with the local police forces.
This year, the average Enhanced DBS check was completed in 11.8 days, before being posted. On the 13th of October 2023, the DBS sent us their official processing time data. We’ve prepared a guide for this scenario, which you can read here. In this case, the only option is to wait, as it is only possible to request an escalation after it has been stuck for 60 days – although it may be processed as normal within that period. If just one police force experiences delays, the whole check grinds to a halt. ( Click here to read more about the local police information included on Enhanced checks). This is because Enhanced checks require all branches of the UK police whose jurisdiction the applicant’s 5-year address history falls under to conduct their own record checks. The majority are completed within 7-10 days (plus postage) but sometimes they can take much longer. How Long Are DBS Checks Taking? – En hanced CheckĮnhanced checks vary greatly in the length of time taken to be completed. Reference Checking Tips for Easier Recruitment.
