When it comes to getting a new job, it can be a minefield to know what controls you'll have to complete and what processes they'll entail. In the UK, certain industries and professions require more extensive background checks than others. From the Credence experts, we break down the different controls needed for popular roles and what they involve.Security Industry: Employers must carry out extensive background checks in the UK for candidates applying to the security and defense industry. This includes verifying personal information, comparing documents, and confirming that all the information provided matches.
To enlist in the British Armed Forces, you'll need to go through pre-employment background checks, including financial checks, such as searching for credit. A global sanctions check is a process in which an employer or potential employer performs a background check on an individual in several jurisdictions.
Clare Law and Sarah's Law
: The Clare Law or the “Domestic Violence Disclosure Plan” gives you the right to ask the police if your partner may pose a risk to you. It is recommended to contact the Metropolitan Police for information under these laws.Academic History Check
: Some companies in the UK use an academic history check to verify the credentials of their potential employees.Right to Work
: Some background checks can be processed instantly, such as the right to work, the UK credit check, the DVLA check, and international sanctions. Simple identity checks can be carried out in as little as a few hours, but a global criminal background check, for example, can take several weeks.Healthcare and Finance
: In addition, some sectors, such as healthcare or finance, have strict regulatory requirements that require extensive background checks and verifications.In most cases, background checks fail because candidates have provided inaccurate or incomplete information.
International Aspects
: If the job involves international aspects, such as working with clients or partners overseas, additional verifications may be required, such as international background checks or verification of foreign degrees, which can add complexity and time to the process.BS7858 or SMCR Standards: While most employers usually implement common types of background checks, such as work history checks, education checks, and criminal background checks (commonly known as DBS checks), others may have slightly more stringent needs. Conducting a thorough background check helps mitigate risk and ensures a safer hiring decision. This will range from fundamental verification of the right to work and digital identity verification to advanced verification in accordance with the BS7858 or SMCR standards, which have stricter requirements depending on the position being advertised.How Long Do Pre-Employment Checks Take?
: It's up to the employer to decide whether to hire you based on the information you found during a background check. These verifications are designed for candidates with a current British address; without a current address that is British, the checks will not be valid and a report will be issued accordingly.Failure to comply with criminal and credit checks could prevent them from working with vulnerable people or performing financial functions. Ultimately, conducting extensive background checks helps employers make informed decisions when hiring new staff.
