Safer recruitment policy

Safer recruitment Policy

Overview

This policy sets out how we ensure our recruitment practices are safe, fair, and compliant with safeguarding requirements. It applies to all roles, especially those involving contact with children, vulnerable adults, or sensitive information.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, agency workers, and contractors involved in the recruitment and selection of staff across the organisation.

General Principles

Our commitment to safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We take a proactive approach to identifying and reducing risks through robust recruitment processes.

Pre-employment checks

All successful candidates will be subject to relevant pre-employment checks, including:

• Verification of identity

• Right to work in the UK

• Qualifications and professional registration (if required)

• References from previous employers (at least one must be from the most recent role)

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks where the role involves regulated activity

Interview and selection

At least one person on each recruitment panel will have completed safer recruitment training. Interview questions will explore a candidate’s suitability, experience, and attitude towards safeguarding. We also assess any unexplained gaps in employment history.

Use of agency staff and contractors

Where temporary staff or contractors are used, we will obtain written confirmation that appropriate vetting and DBS checks have been completed by the agency or supplier.

Recruitment of ex-offenders

We comply with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. A criminal record will not automatically bar an applicant from working with us. We assess relevance and risk case-by-case and in line with DBS guidance.

Record keeping

We maintain accurate records of recruitment processes and vetting checks. Any concerns raised during the process will be documented and reviewed before an offer is made.

Rraining and review

All managers involved in recruitment must complete safer recruitment training every 3 years. This policy will be reviewed annually or after any significant change in safeguarding legislation.

This policy [does not] form[s] part of your terms and conditions of employment.

Version: [1.0]

Issue date: [date]

Author: [name, job title]