Probate Service Staffing Woes: Delays and Recruitment Challenges

The Probate Service in England and Wales has faced significant challenges in recent years, with a drastic reduction in staff numbers causing delays for bereaved families trying to settle estates. According to Ministry of Justice figures, the Probate Service saw a decrease from 188 to 123 staff over a three-year period, with a particularly sharp decline in more experienced staff at senior levels.

Legal experts have raised concerns about the impact of these staff cuts on families, noting that delays in obtaining probate can lead to emotional distress and financial difficulties. Property sales may collapse, and crucial deadlines for reclaiming tax on investment losses may be missed as a result of these delays.

However, there is some hope on the horizon, as the Probate Service has recently recruited and trained 100 new staff since December of last year. This recruitment drive has seen the workforce increase to 262 by March of this year, with a focus on processing grants more efficiently and reducing wait times for applicants.

Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the impact of delays on families and the overall administration of estates. The increase in probate fees, coupled with delays in processing applications, has put additional strain on families already dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Legal experts and industry professionals are calling for more resources and support for the Probate Service to ensure that families can access the funds and assets they need in a timely manner. The average wait time for probate applications has increased in recent months, highlighting the need for urgent action to address these delays and provide much-needed support to bereaved families.