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‘Do I need to disclose my criminal record?’ tool

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  1. Hello
    I have a criminal record “unspent” and have been rejected employment in
    the past because of this. How do i
    over come this situation when i am applying for jobs now please?

    1. Hi Gloria

      As you are probably aware, all the time your conviction is unspent you would have to disclose it to an employer if asked. At this point, an employer can refuse to employ you based merely on the fact that you have a criminal record. Although your experiences so far have not been good, don’t assume that just because you have an unspent conviction you’ll never get a job. However, the key to success is likely to be the way in which you disclose your conviction and you can find lots of useful information at https://unlock.org.uk/guide/disclosing-to-employers/.

      Best wishes

      Debbie

  2. Hello

    What happens if my employer asks the question “Have you ever received a caution or conviction?” I believe this comes up a lot on applications and is generally a tick box exercise. If it is spent, would I have to tick that box? Assuming this is for a role which uses basic checks. Seeing as it no longer comes up on basic checks and is for all intents and purposes no longer relevant.

    Thank you
    Mel

    1. Hi Mel

      Questions such as this are really misleading and will often lead to individuals over-disclosing their criminal record. If the job you are applying for is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) and only requires a basic criminal record check then legally you wouldn’t need to disclose any spent convictions.

      Best wishes

      Debbie

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Photo of Head of Advice, Debbie Sadler
Debbie Sadler
Head of Advice

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