I currently have an application pending with a university for start September 2018 (yep it weeks late).
 It has so far taken three months to gather information on the fact I had 20 indecent images on my computer five years ago. The exhaustive nature of this new investigation
is breathtaking and has included two interviews.
Quite by chance t'other day I learnt that UCAS, the student application body, has finally removed the criminal records tickbox (except for work with
vulnerable people) after years of discrimination. 
So, If my application for this year fails I can apply again happily knowing I won't have to go through this
ridiculous process. At least UCAS recognises that ex offenders who want to better themselves with higher education and 
not the same as those with out hope, jobs, support or prospects.
I am little surprised Unlock has not been making this widely known.