We were recently contacted by an individual who had been seeking an online quote for home contents insurance from an insurance broker.
The broker’s online application form asked applicants to disclose all unspent convictions and provided a link to a table setting out the relevant rehabilitation periods for various sentences and disposals.
However, despite the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) having been amended in March 2014, the individual who contacted us was concerned that the rehabilitation periods listed on the site were based on old legislation prior to the changes that had been implemented in March 2014.
We contacted the broker and explained that the information currently on their site relating to the ROA was out of date. We provided them with details of the new legislation and also sent them a link to our disclosure calculator which we felt may also be a useful aid for their clients in helping them work out when their conviction would become spent.
The broker was keen to engage with us and within days had updated their website and guidance to reflect the amended legislation.
Lessons
This case showed how difficult it can be for organisations to keep up to date with changes in legislation. However, once this has been highlighted to them, many organisation will implement the necessary changes to ensure that their customers have clear, up to date guidance.
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Notes about this case study
This case study relates to our work with other organisations.
Names and details have been changed to protect the identity of those involved.
