Rapid Results! – Quick and reliable DBS checks
January 17th, 2025 by Daisy Birch
At Due Diligence Checking (DDC) we endeavour to provide our clients with a top-tier service that simplifies the process of applying for DBS checks. Alongside this, DDC are committed to ensuring that the results of DBS checks are returned as quickly as possible. The turnaround times at the DBS have been continually improving and DDC continue to work closely with the DBS to ensure there are no delays in the process. DDC submit applications to the DBS every two hours via eBulk and along with the introduction of digital identity DDC is happy to present some examples of recent applications.
Full online DBS Disclosure results in 136 minutes
Recently, 1 hours and 49 minute is the fastest turnaround for an application submitted to the Disclosure and Barring Service. On the 30/12/2024 an application for an Enhanced level check was submitted to the DBS at 10:30 , and the confirmation of acceptance receipt received. The DBS then processed the application and returned the results of the check at 12:19 the same day. The results were then emailed to the requesting organisation instantly.
Start to finish DBS application processing in 4 hours:
The following timeline highlights a real-life example of a client requesting an enhanced DBS check
08:03 – Requested by the Client online
08:38 – DBS application form completed and identity verified using Digital Identity.
09:07 – a DDC Countersignatory checked the form
10:30 – The Enhanced level application was submitted to the Disclosure and Barring Service, via our eBulk connection
12:19 – Results of the application were returned from the DBS the same day
12:19 – DDC instantly emailed the employer the outcome of the check
It is important to note that each application is different and may take longer than others. The DBS have also identified the Local Police Forces where there are known backlogs and are addressing this issue. Unfortunately, DDC have no way of predicting when or if this will happen with any application.
Speeding up the DBS application process
Employers can use an identity service provider (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.
Factors affecting an application
DDC has been supporting organisations with DBS checks since 2002, when the CRB first began. Our years of experience have allowed us to identify factors that influence the speed at which the DBS processes an application. Key factors include:
- Address History – The DBS will run checks based upon the 5-year address history of the applicant, sending requests for information to each of those Local Police Forces (LPF) where the applicant has lived. If the applicant has moved between Police Force areas, then there will be more LPFs to send the information to. Each of these LPFs can also choose to send the application to another Force if they believe they may hold further information.
- Recent checks undertaken– Records of previous searches are kept by the Disclosure and Barring Service. If the applicant has recently undergone a check, their information is more likely to be available, with any updates to their record flagged in the appropriate systems. This means that those who have been checked recently are more likely to have their applications processed quickly.
- Current DBS / Local Police Force Demand– The DBS frequently conducts ‘demand forecasts’ with larger Umbrella Bodies to inform Local Police Forces (LPFs) of any expected increase or decrease in requests. This enables the LPFs to allocate sufficient staff resources to conduct their checks and return results promptly. However, backlogs can occasionally occur within the LPFs, leading to delays in returning results. This is the most significant cause of delays in DBS applications.
- Accurate forms – If the DBS or the LPF believe that the form has not been completed correctly or they have a query (such as role eligibility for a check) they will pass this back to either the Registered Body or the DBS. To minimise these delays, Umbrella Bodies should carefully review the application forms before submission. Where a query is raised, the Umbrella Body should have fully trained Countersignatories in place to respond quickly and accurately. If the information provided on the application form is incorrect, the DBS will most likely withdraw the request, and a new application will need to be completed again occurring additional costs.
So it is imperative that the information provided is accurate.
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.
DBS checking experts
To date DDC have processed hundreds of thousands of applications via eBulk and have a great deal of experience in the online submission of information to the DBS.
To ensure clients receive the best possible service DDC are always reviewing the processes undertaken. DDC ensure that at all times systems remain compliant with the DBS regulations and strive to make the process as smooth as possible for those completing the form, checking documents, or managing applicants. DDC have incorporated some key services to ensure clients receive quick and reliable DBS checking including:
- Tailored applicant reminders including email, SMS and phone calls
- Easy to complete online smart form
- Cross referencing and error checking technology
- Support and guidance at the point of need
- Digital identity checking
- Fully trained countersignatory check of every application
- DBS submission every two hours
- Local Police Force escalation
If you would like to know more about how DDC can help with your DBS checks, speak with a DBS expert today. DDC’s experts can talk you through the process, ensuring you are compliant at every stage and tailor the package to meet your requirements. Contact the team on 0116 260 3055 | 0845 644 3298 or email newenquiries@ddc.uk.net
