What’s been happening in the DBS since its last newsletter? (November 2015)

It’s important for us to keep up with news from the DBS, so their newsletter is much anticipated here in the CBS office. In case you missed it, let us fill you in on the latest news from the DBS.

DBS check delays at the Metropolitan police
According to reports, DBS checks going to the Met police are facing delays with some taking longer than the 60 day target. Some checks are even taking longer than 120 days which has obviously had a negative impact on candidates and employers.

The DBS team are working with the Met police to address issues around performance and are currently working to an agreed recovery plan. This has involved taking on 30 new members of staff with 20 more to come shortly to help tackle the problem, with an estimated increased productivity rate of 1,000 applications per week. This problem obviously cannot be changed overnight, so it is hoped to be resolved by July 2016.

DBS Chief Executive takes on new role
Very exciting news for DBS chief Adrienne Kelbie, who has now joined the Office of Nuclear Regulation as a Chief Executive. Kelbie will be working to ensure that the nuclear industry is strongly regulated in her more senior role.

Deputy Chief Executive, Adele Downey, will be stepping into the role Chief role at the DBS until a permanent member of staff is recruited.

European Criminal Checks – safeguarding across borders
The DBS has launched a pilot test to access criminal record information from the EU which will run until April 2016. This test will affect Dutch or Latvian nationals who are looking for employment in the UK.

There is currently no other existing system to access information from other European countries so it is hoped to improve the quality of safeguarding information.

Government announcement-counter extremism strategy
Earlier this year, David Cameron announced new sweeping powers to automatically ban convicted terrorists from working with young people and vulnerable adults. These changes will provide the DBS with an enhanced role to help protect the public.

Making a barring referral – your duty to refer
As an employer it is your legal duty to make a barring referral to the DBS if you have concerns following a safeguarding incident. This will help exclude people from working with vulnerable people. According to law, you must still make a referral to the DBS even if you have previously reported an incident to another body.