Disclosure Turnaround Times

The full process and turnaround times need to be taken into consideration when applying for a check, especially if timing is crucial. Here are a few key considerations.

When an organisation is recruiting new employees or managing internal compliance, it is important to understand disclosure turnaround times. This is crucial for staying on schedule and ensuring a smooth process. In this guide, we will break down the key factors influencing turnaround times, what to expect, and how to keep your HR operations running efficiently.

The time required to receive a Disclosure can be broken into three key parts:

the time needed to complete and return the form,
the time the DBS or Disclosure Scotland require to check their data sources.
the time for the certificate to be printed and posted to the applicant

Online Processing Times:

With the online process, DDC’s system automatically sends an e-mail to the applicant once an application is initiated. This provides them with the username and password required to access their online form. They would then complete the online form and nominate their identity documents or if applicable go down the digital identity route. DDC will issue reminders, prompting applicants to complete their online form to help speed the process along.

Users can also complete the application form on an individuals behalf if they have all of the required information and consent.

Disclosure Turnaround Timings:

The DBS turnaround times vary depending on which level of Disclosure is requested. Explore some of the factors affecting an application:

Address History: The more Local Police Forces (LPFs) involved in an applicant’s 5-year address history, the longer a check may take.
Recent Checks: Applicants who have been checked recently may have records readily available, helping applications process quicker.
Current Demand: Demand and backlogs at Local Police Forces can affect processing times and are a common cause of delays.
Accurate Forms: Incomplete or incorrect information can lead to queries and delays, so applications should be carefully checked before submission.

Speeding up the DBS Application Process:

Employers can use a digital verification service provider, DVSP (previously known as an IDSP) to digitally verify an applicant’s identity as part of the DBS checking process. DDC’s Digital Identity service for DBS utilises the DDC ID app which links directly to our secure online DBS and pre-employment screening platform.

With DDC ID, the document checking stage can be cut down from days to seconds. On average it takes 5 days to complete the document checking process either due to a remote workforce or limited HR time. DDC ID cuts this process down to just 1 minute! Making the whole application process quick and easy.

Can DBS Checks be Fast-tracked?

The is no fast-track service to expedite the results of DBS checks. The DBS do not give any preference to any Umbrella Body over another, whether they are submitting 100 or 100,000 applications. Applications are processed in chronological order, from the time they are received.

Tips for Organisations:

We always recommend submitting your requests as early as possible where you can. Ensure applicant details and address history are complete and accurate, check the role is eligible for the correct level of check, and respond promptly to any queries raised. While some delays are outside your control, careful checks at the application stage can help avoid unnecessary hold-ups.