Introduction:
Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire (BCH) police forces collaborate when it comes to firearms licensing.
We’re committed to working constructively with this Tri-Force team as they navigate significant delays.
But let’s be clear: the rights of the public, the law and police obligations matter now more than ever.
Understanding your rights isn’t about confrontation, it’s about ensuring fair, lawful treatment in a system that serves both public safety and individual responsibility.
It’s why we’ve put together this free article which analyses the position and key messages that can be found on the service updates page of the individual Forces.
It provides some guidance on the main issues and also has links to further information.
Service Updates:
Each force has published its own update. The text appears identical but here’s where to find them:
Bedfordshire – https://www.beds.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fi/bch/firearms-licensing-service-update/
Cambridgeshire – https://www.cambs.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fi/bch/firearms-licensing-service-update/
Hertfordshire – https://www.herts.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fi/bch/firearms-licensing-service-update/
Reasons for delay:
This service update begins by explaining that the current levels of service offered are as a result of:
- Statutory Guidance – The changes to the requirement on police have resulted in extra work in the form of additional checks and scrutiny.
- Increased demand – further clarity on what this entails would help applicants plan more effectively.
There is no doubt that Statutory Guidance has imposed a more rigorous series of checks but this has been consistent across the UK and was first issued in November 2021.
In addition to this, if we examine the combined output from BCH over the last 5 years it does not seem to support the mentioned increase in demand.
Note – For the sake of simplicity (and because not everyone likes lots of data like me) I have only considered shotgun grants and renewals over the past five years. This data is drawn from published Home Office Statistics and usually represents the bulk of a firearms licensing departments work.
Key Messages:
These are drawn from the service updates that can be found on their website but also include links to further practical guidance on the various issues raised:
1) Renewals are taking around 9 months – BCH ask you to submit your application at
“least 20–24 weeks before expiry to avoid falling foul of Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968”.
Ensuring you do not fall into unlawful possession is vital and we would always recommend working with the requirements of your firearms licensing team
BUT… what if you don’t read the website or can’t submit a renewal application that early?
The law states that an application for renewal received not less than 8 weeks before expiry benefits from an 8 week extension.
Statutory Guidance states that the renewal should be complete by the original expiry date unless “exceptional circumstances” apply and then the Police have a further period which acts as a safety net (The 8 week extension)
Provided you submit in the timeframe above your expectation should be that your renewal will be complete.
Why this is so important relates to the issue of storage and whether the police will expect you to arrange and pay for it while they process your renewal.
The police are not obliged to provide secure storage but according to Statutory Guidance the police should:
the police should work with the applicant to make the necessary arrangements for the safe, legal storage of their property until such time as the application is decided, or the police may consider the issue of a temporary permit, issued in accordance with section 7 of the Firearms Act 1968.
The links below will lead you to 2 articles that are highly relevant to his and provide further detail.
Renewal delays – https://firearmslicensing.net/delays-renewals/
Provides an overview of how firearms / shotgun certificate holders can navigate the renewal process, particularly in the event of delays.
It explains the legal framework, statutory expectations, and the options available when processing takes longer than anticipated.
Temporary Permits – https://firearmslicensing.net/temporary-permits/
Temporary Permits were designed to bridge short gaps—not to become a workaround for systemic delays. Responsible shooters deserve timely, fair treatment.
2) Grants are facing a minimum 12-month wait – but from our customers we know that this is typically significantly longer.
Grant Delays – https://firearmslicensing.net/grant-delays/
This article addresses delays in the processing of firearms certificate grants, highlighting how factors like COVID-related backlogs, the Keyham tragedy, and the introduction of statutory GP requirements have slowed the system. It explains that while the NPCC suggests a 4-month timeline for “non-complex” grants, this varies widely across forces. The piece offers practical steps applicants can take to streamline their application and suggests escalating if necessary.
3) Accurate applications are critical – You should double-check your paperwork before submission.
Accurate Applications – https://firearmslicensing.net/application-process/
This article provides detailed guidance on completing the UK firearms application form (Form 201), emphasising accuracy and transparency. It highlights the importance of avoiding false statements, ensuring all sections are completed correctly to prevent rejection.
In Summary:
Whether you’re renewing, applying, or stuck in limbo – don’t go it alone.
If you live in Beds, Cambs or Herts (or anywhere else) and want principled, practical support – join us today.
Use code BCH50off for a full year of guidance via our ultimate self-help guide for just £6.
Signing up couldn’t be easier:
- Follow this link – Register.
- Add your details to the simple registration form.
- Select Essential Membership and enter discount code BCH50off.
Alternatively… if you want direct support and problem solving done for you... select the complete membership and leave it all to us. We will assess and understand your situation and then advocate on your behalf to resolve it.
Don’t go it alone and always feel free to reach out to us via this link.
