If you cannot access the IER Digital Service in time to determine applications before a deadline, you will need to use a local method of verification these are:
the attestation process (only where an applicant cannot prove their identity by providing documentary evidence required by the exceptions process)
You should decide which approach is most appropriate in the individual circumstances. Whichever approach is taken, you must be satisfied as to the applicant’s identity before they can allow an application.
You should establish in advance which contingency method(s) you intend to employ and what resources they require to enable them. This should be documented in your contingency plans. Resource and IT requirements should be logged as critical requirements in your organisation’s disaster recovery plans and you should make provision for the necessary resources to implement them.
You should continue to check the progress and resolution time for the problems which initiated the contingency process, in order that you can revert back to the IER Digital Service as soon as these are resolved.