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Launch of #FairChecks – A fresh start for the criminal records system

Together with the charity Transform Justice, Unlock has launched the #FairCheck movement to help push for a fresh start for the criminal records system.

Our outdated criminal records regime is holding hundreds of thousands of people back from participating fully in society. Even a minor criminal history can produce lifelong barriers to employment, volunteering, housing and even travelling abroad, many years after people have moved on from their past. The system needs to change.

The #FairChecks movement is calling for the government to launch a major review of the legislation on the disclosure of criminal records to reduce the length of time a record is revealed.

Commenting on the site, Christopher Stacey, co-director of Unlock said:

People who have made mistakes in the past find themselves locked out of jobs and opportunities, unable to fully contribute to society or to achieve their potential because of a criminal record that is effectively a life sentence. Helping people to secure employment, support their families and contribute to the economy is one of the best ways of making communities safer. Yet the law as it stands means people are forced to reveal criminal records to employers and others for many years – sometimes for the rest of their lives.

Unlock is delighted to be partnering with Transform Justice to launch the #FairChecks movement to help push for a major review of the legislation on the disclosure of criminal records. Everyone should have the opportunity to unleash their potential and make a positive contribution to society. Everyone should have the opportunity of a fresh start. The #FairChecks site is a crucial way for people to show their MP that they support reform of the criminal record disclosure system.”

Penelope Gibbs, director of Transform Justice, said:

People want to move on from their past but our criminal records disclosure system is a barrier. Transform Justice is pleased to be partnering with Unlock to launch a movement for reform of the system. We know that everybody who has been in trouble with the law should have the opportunity of a fresh start.”

How can you help?

Use the #FairChecks site to get the support of your local MP.

Because it is the government that has to make changes to the law, we need the support of MPs. You can help by getting the support of your local MP. The first step is to use the #FairChecks website to send them a letter letting them know that a fair criminal records system is important to you.

Share the #FairChecks site on social media.

Please tweet a link to the site using the hashtag #FairChecks, share it on Facebook and LinkedIn and highlight it with your networks, directing people to the website www.fairchecks.org.uk.

Support it as an organisation

Alongside encouraging individuals to use #FairChecks to write to their MP, we are keen for organisations to be part of this too. We want to encourage organisations to show their public support for #FairChecks through Twitter, other social media and blogs, and please do get in touch with us if your organisation is interested in showing its support in other ways.

For more information about #FairChecks, visit unlock.devchd.com/fairchecks.

Comments

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  1. I went to court because of my racist neighbour has been harassment toward me. There are been neighbour’s dispute. My neighbour have started causing trouble by harassment, intimidating, provoking, fliming and taking pictures of me without my consent. She also call me racist names even though there is evidences but the police never investigate my side of story.
    I’m worry I’m going to get a record just because I call her names but she push me too far and I just had enough.

    I really need to speak to someone because is so unfair for me to go to court and even the barrister think it was unfair and I am not the one who cause trouble. I really do think this is
    racist because I have been treated unfairly.

    1. Hi Lizzy

      It sounds like this was quite a complex case and it might be worth you giving our helpline a call. I’m sure one of our advisors will be able to provide you with relevant information and advice and discuss the ongoing implications of a criminal record. Our helpline number is 01634 247350 or 07824 113848.

      Best wishes

      Debbie

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

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