Every so often, a story hits the press about someone losing out on a job because their criminal records check has been slow to come back. Usually, these stories are focused on England and Wales. However, recent reports from north of the border seem to indicate that there are serious issues with Scottish CRB checks too. So what exactly is going on, and should you be worried?
Why are Scottish CRB Checks different?
Scotland’s legal system developed separately from the system in the rest of the UK. Although there are lots of similarities, the differences mean that offences don’t always translate neatly from one system to the other. In Scotland, criminal records checks are done by a body called Disclosure Scotland. The scheme they use for their checks is called Protecting Vulnerable Groups, or PVG. Although the body is different as is the terminology, the principles are the same. People working with children, vulnerable adults or in positions of responsibility apply for one of three levels of disclosure check. This is very similar to the process in England and Wales. The organisation you apply to for your criminal records checks depends on where you live. Anyone living in Scotland, whatever their nationality, will apply to Disclosure Scotland.
What’s causing the delays?
The Scottish government target for turning around disclosure checks is two weeks. This is substantially quicker than in many parts of England and Wales. However, concerns were raised at the Scottish parliament back in December about delays. The Christmas period also means a slow-down, as staff take time off. But this year, the festive period coincided with a new IT system, resulting in even more delays for applicants.
Since then of course, the world has been gripped by coronavirus, and Scotland isn’t immune to the effects. All public services are coming under huge pressure, and applicants may find that longer waits for a disclosure certificate are not going to disappear. At present, Disclosure Scotland are understandably prioritising applications from people involved in the coronavirus response. This means that applicants who need a criminal records check for a new job in childcare or other industries go to the back of the queue.
Speeding up Scottish CRB Checks
There is no “fast-track” option for getting your Scottish CRB check. The only exception to this is for people currently trying to get their disclosure check for working in the NHS, or as a community volunteer. That doesn’t mean though that there’s nothing you can do to move through the system as quickly as possible.
It’s your employer’s responsibility to make sure you fill in the right form for the job you will be doing. Online applications are always quicker than using traditional pen and paper. Submitting online cuts out postal delays, and the form comes with built-in checks to ensure you haven’t missed out any key information. There is lots of information online about how to submit the forms, but be careful. Remember that you’re filling in a Scottish application, so looking at guidance or notes designed for Disclosure and Barring Service checks will just confuse you. Disclosure Scotland has a helpline, and email address for advice. These are at present also prioritising NHS applications.
Getting Assistance and Identification
One of the most important steps in the process is proving identity. The list of documents which you can use is very similar to the list for DBS checks. Start pulling together your documents as soon as you get the application form. Remember you’ll need originals of key identity documents like your passport and driving licence. You’ll also need utility bills, bank statements or credit card bills. If you have online banking, contact your bank to ask for paper statements.
If you get stuck with your application, ask for help. Guessing what to put in the boxes is a risky strategy. When the system is busy, there just isn’t the time to call people up to resolve discrepancies. Usually, there’ll be someone at your employer who can help answer questions. Alternatively, consider using a third party agency which can help with submitting your form. Check the latest processing times online, and keep watching the postbox. All certificates issued by Disclosure Scotland will arrive in the post.