One of the most common questions about DBS checks is why DBS processing is stuck at stage 4. To understand this better, it's helpful to review the stages of a DBS check process first, so we can explore why delays sometimes occur.
Stages of a DBS Check
There are typically 5 stages in the DBS process:
- Stage 1: Application Received and Validated – In this stage, paper and online applications are reviewed for errors or missing information just after you hit the button, or when the paper form arrives in the post.
- Stage 2: Police National Computer (PNC) Searched – The details from the application are checked against the PNC to identify any matches. If no matches are found, the application moves to stage 3.
- Stage 3: Adults’ and Children’s Barred Lists – If the applicant is applying for a enhanced disclosure, their details are checked against the Barred Lists to make sure they are not disqualified from working with children or vulnerable adults.
- Stage 4: Search of Police Records – This stage only applies in an enhanced check, and additional checks are made against police information about arrests or other matters which have not resulted in conviction.
- Stage 5: DBS Certificate Printed – Once all checks are complete, the details to be disclosed are added to the certificate, which is then printed and mailed to the applicant.
Reasons Why DBS Checks Get Stuck at Stage 4
If you are tracking the progress of your DBS online, you can see through the portal what stage your application is sitting at. There are many reasons why a DBS check may appear to get stuck at Stage 4, but the most common are:
- Multiple Names - If the applicant has used different names (such as a change in first or surname after marriage or divorce), the police will need to cross-check all previous names.
- Police Delays - Sometimes police forces have backlogs of applications to process, which can cause delays. This might happen due to staffing issues or other internal factors within the police force. Some months of the year are busier than others due to either increased volume of applications, or staff holidays.
- Multiple Previous Addresses - One of the most significant causes of delays at stage 4 is the number of previous addresses the applicant has had. If these addresses are spread across different parts of the country managed by different police forces, each force must conduct its own checks, which can extend the time required to complete the process.
What You Can Do
You might not have control over how quickly things happen when the DBS starts processing, but you can do your bit by making sure that you give them all of the information they need. Ensure you have completed your address history in full with postcodes, and given all of your previous names. If you're experiencing delays, contacting the DBS after 60 days can often help speed up the process, as their target is to never take longer than this to turn checks around.
