Recruitment Checking Procedures

A number of procedures need to be put in place to ensure successful applicants are who they say they are and that they have the right to take up the job offered.

Employers have a statutory obligation to ensure all employees have the right to work in the UK.  Although it may seem this only applies to non-British citizens, applying the checking procedure only to applicants who appear to fall into this category is discriminatory.  Therefore it is good practice to check all applicants.

The procedure is detailed in the website and publication of the UK Border Agency, part of the UK Home Office.  For most applicants, taking a photocopy of their original Passport is sufficient.  The copy should be kept on file so that you can prove you have taken the necessary steps to check their right to work in the UK.  For applicants who work under a Work Permit, you need to make additional checks.

If you intend to employ someone who is not a British or European Union citizen, you need to apply for and receive a valid Work Permit before they start their employment with you.

You should also check references.  If you have any doubt of the authenticity of written references, you should ask the applicant's permission to contact their referee by phone.  External agencies provide this service and this may be appropriate where the new employee will have significant responsibility and authority over financial resources and budgets.  Most financial services organisations follow additional FSA rules to ensure applicants have no adverse record of financial dealings.

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