The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK)

POLICY ON THE RECRUITMENT OF EX-OFFENDERS

Policy Statement

Having a criminal record will not necessarily debar you from volunteering with The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK).

This will depend on the nature of the position, together with the circumstances and background of your offences or other information contained on a disclosure certificate.

Introduction

The code of practice published under section 122 of the Police Act 1997 advises that it is a requirement that all registered bodies must treat DBS applicants who have a criminal record fairly and not discriminate automatically because of a conviction or other information revealed.

The code also obliges registered bodies to have a written policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders; a copy of which can be given to DBS applicants at the outset of the recruitment process.

To help us meet this requirement the DBS has produced a policy statement which has been used or adapted for this purpose.

This policy statement is also be included within our organisation’s equal opportunities policy.

·         as an organisation assessing applicants’ suitability for positions which are included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order using criminal record checks processed through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) complies fully with the code of practice and undertakes to treat all applicants for positions fairly

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a criminal record check on the basis of a conviction or other information revealed

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) can only ask an individual to provide details of convictions and cautions that The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) are legally entitled to know about. Where a DBS certificate at either standard or enhanced level can legally be requested (where the position is one that is included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 as amended, and where appropriate Police Act Regulations as amended)

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) can only ask an individual about convictions and cautions that are not protected.

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) is committed to the fair treatment of its staff, potential staff or users of its services, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, age, physical/mental disability or offending background

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) has a written policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders, which is made available to all DBS applicants at the start of the recruitment process

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) actively promotes equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential and welcome applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) select all candidates for interview based on their skills, qualifications and experience.

·         an application for a criminal record check is only submitted to DBS after a thorough risk assessment has indicated that one is both proportionate and relevant to the position concerned. For those positions where a criminal record check is identified as necessary, all application forms, job adverts and recruitment briefs will contain a statement that an application for a DBS certificate will be submitted in the event of the individual being offered the position

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) ensures that all those in The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) who are involved in the recruitment process have been suitably trained to identify and assess the relevance and circumstances of offences

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) also ensures that they have received appropriate guidance and training in the relevant legislation relating to the employment of ex-offenders, e.g. the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974

·         at interview, or in a separate discussion, The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) ensures that an open and measured discussion takes place on the subject of any offences or other matter that might be relevant to the position. Failure to reveal information that is directly relevant to the position sought could lead to withdrawal of an offer of employment

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) makes every subject of a criminal record check submitted to DBS aware of the existence of the code of practice and makes a copy available on request

·         The Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue UK (ERT SAR UK) undertakes to discuss any matter revealed on a DBS certificate with the individual seeking the position before withdrawing a conditional offer of employment.

SOURCE GUIDANCE:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-sample-policy-on-the-recruitment-of-ex-offenders/