Update on Metropolitan Police DBS backlog

On the 10th August 2016 the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) released an update regarding the backlog of applications at the Metropolitan police.

By Personnel Checks.

As you may be aware, during the DBS application process, applications have to be reviewed by police forces as part of the disclosure service.

The police review is built in to the time is takes to process an application. However, the Met are experiencing a number of issues which are sometimes preventing them from meeting their 60 day service level target. The DBS are working closely with the Met to resolve these issues and help improve performance but the level of applications in progress means it is taking some time to resolve the issue.

We understand this can be concerning and know the impact the backlog can have on both applicants and employers.

The DBS have released an update stating that any applications in progress that have reached 60 days will now be automatically escalated by the DBS - Please be aware that the Met are dealing with applications in date order because of the current backlog.

If you have processed your application through Personnel Checks and it has been escalated but still hasn’t returned after 10 working days, please get in touch and we will contact the Police for you.

What is an Enhanced DBS check?An Enhanced DBS check is the highest level of check available. It searches the applicant’s criminal history for: Both spent and unspent convictions Cautions Warnings Reprimands Enhanced DBS checks also have the option to check the applicant isn’t on the adults or children’s barred lists. This level of check can be obtained for positions that work with children or vulnerable groups and can only be applied for by employers on behalf of their employees.