Central Bedfordshire Council

The Challenge 

Before partnering with First Advantage, Central Bedfordshire Council faced significant challenges in their background screening processes.  

The council’s HR department managed all checks manually, leading to inefficiencies and delays. The council required a reliable system to conduct Criminal Record Checks for its various departments, including HR, Taxi Licensing, Adoption, Fostering, and Passenger Transport. 

 Additionally, budget constraints hindered the expansion of their screening portfolio, limiting their ability to implement more comprehensive checks such as Driving License checks, Digital ID, and Right to Work checks. 

The Solution 

Central Bedfordshire Council therefore selected First Advantage to streamline their background screening processes. By moving from paper-based processing to an online system, they were able to enhance efficiency and reduce the administrative burden on HR.  

First Advantage provided a range of solutions, including Criminal Record Checks, DBS Update Service Monitoring checks, and UK Instant Employment checks. The council also expressed interest in expanding their use of First Advantage’s services as budgets allow. 

The Impact 

The partnership with First Advantage has significantly improved the council’s background screening processes. Hiring managers now find it easier to monitor checks, alleviating pressure on the organisation. The convenience of the helpdesk has proven to be a significant advantage, enabling staff to resolve issues efficiently without the need for calls or emails. This streamlined approach not only saves time but also enhances productivity, allowing employees to focus on their core responsibilities while quickly addressing any challenges that arise.  

Overall, Central Bedfordshire Council has reported a positive experience, rating First Advantage highly for responsiveness and support. The collaboration has positioned them to enhance their screening capabilities as future budgets permit, ultimately contributing to a more secure and efficient hiring process. 

Pip Towell, HR Services Manager at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: 

“We have been working with First Advantage for a long time, and our current Account Managers are highly proactive and responsive to any issues we encounter. This has made the overall process easier and communication much clearer.”