Sussex police chief says new staff and new software will help tackle DBS check delays.
Police leaders in Sussex say the next six months are “critical” in getting the force’s Disclosure and Barring Service check delays under control to avoid getting to a point “where you’re never going to catch up”.
Figures from October show there are now 12,072 outstanding cases and the average turnaround time is 92 days, compared to a national average of 12.2 days. Jo Shiner said the long delays were partly due to Sussex Police’s decision to prioritise the oldest outstanding applications first. Katy Bourne asked for an updated plan on how DBS checks will be managed in Sussex between now and April.In April, the Disclosure and Barring Service gave Sussex Police extra funding to recruit four more case workers to help tackle delays.
Ms Shiner said: “We do need fully trained staff in order to be able to do it, and that’s the challenge.” August saw an 8% rise, with 300 more cases. There were 137 more cases then expected in September, a 3% rise.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Sussex Police: Increase in numbers waiting for DBS checksDelays in DBS checks are having a financial impact as demand at Sussex Police has grown further.
Read more »
Sussex Police: Crime falls in hotspot areas after targeted actionCrime has fallen by more than 14% in hotspot areas after six months of targeted action, police say.
Read more »
Sussex: Battery storage site plans given green lightPlans for 27-acre facility on land at Coombe Farm, Twineham, was approved by the county council.
Read more »
Sussex Police urges people to avoid Lewes bonfire night due to 'serious' overcrowding fearsThe force says 212 injuries have been reported at the event in the past five years - with many of those hurt on procession routes and by bangers and other fireworks.
Read more »
East Sussex: Booking system could start at waste recycling centresA consultation has begun on a booking system for household waste recycling centres in East Sussex.
Read more »
Surrey and East Sussex to celebrate DiwaliEvents are taking place across Surrey and West and East Sussex to celebrate Diwali.
Read more »