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Police Force Delay Updates

Written by EmploymentCheck | Dec 15, 2025 9:50:54 AM

Police Force Delay Updates 

 
 Two years on since we began reporting on significant delays impacting processing times for Enhanced DBS checks some, we’re pleased to hear the situation has approved for many. Kent Police have continued to reduce their ‘aged cases’ and as a result of successfully embedding their initiatives, they have been able to stabilise and improve performance meaning they are no longer a concern.

The DBS aims to complete 80% of enhanced checks within 14 days, however they continue to acknowledge that some Local Police Forces are experiencing significant delays. These forces are Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Sussex and Thames Valley.

View the latest information sheet for more details >>

Where HR Connect act as the Registered Body on behalf of the customer, any application that reaches a 60 day period at the Local Police Force stage, is escalated by the HR Connect directly with the DBS. HR Connect will do this automatically without the need for the customer or the applicant to request this.  Following this escalation by HR Connect, the DBS will then take responsibility of escalating with the Local Police Forces every two weeks until a DBS result is returned. HR Connect have no control on the DBS processing times however continue to ensure checks are escalated as soon as possible to prevent further delays. 

Should an applicant be experiencing severe financial hardship due to a delayed DBS check, the applicant can submit a Hardship Escalation directly to the DBS. To apply, the candidate will need to call 03000 200 190 or contact by email: customerservices@dbs.gov.uk.