Some police forces are not accepting first-time grant applications because of difficulties they may be having with carrying out home visits during local and national Covid-19 restrictions.
However, some police forces have been adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic and are conducting home visits remotely using video conferencing calls on mobile phones.
BASC does not want to see anyone with an interest in shooting disadvantaged and we are encouraging police forces to adopt digital solutions to carry out home visits in order to fulfil their statutory duties for firearms licensing.
If you are a BASC member and are experiencing a delay with a first-time grant application please email firearms@basc.org.uk for advice and assistance.
Most police forces have continued to process renewals and variations, albeit with time delays in some cases due to the impact of Covid-19 on officer and staff functions. This is an ever-changing situation and BASC recommends that you contact your police force’s firearms licensing team for the latest situation.
This advice sets out a clear marker for police forces to follow clarifying some of the confusion that has been evident in the last week or so.
BASC urges members to follow government advice.
Shooting contributes not only to well-being but also benefits the natural environment and supports livelihoods and local communities across the UK.
