Disclosing a criminal record
If you have ever been convicted of a criminal offence or cautioned by the police, you may be unsure about whether you should declare this when applying for jobs or professional training. You may also be concerned about the likely effect of such a declaration.
Disclosure - being open with an employer
The appropriate course of action will vary depending on:
- the nature of the offence
- the type of sentence
- the length of sentence
- the area of employment you're interested in
Criminal records
Employers will typically ask about unspent criminal convictions during the application process. It is important to understand the distinction between spent and unspent convictions, as this determines what you are legally obliged to disclose.
Some convictions may never become spent. Certain roles, particularly those involving work with vulnerable individuals, may require a criminal background check. It's vital to be honest about any relevant criminal history. Failing to disclose when asked can lead to serious consequences. Always check the specific requirements of the role.
It is important to be as honest and open as you can be, explain the circumstances to try to alleviate any immediate concerns that they may have. This will depend on the details of your convictions, as well as the type of opportunities that you are making applications for.
Keep a copy of any information you provide to an employer in case you need to refer to it, or if they have any further questions.