Tests and checks

Employers can do various checks to make sure future employees can do the job they are being hired to do, that they are entitled to work in Northern Ireland, and that they are not barred from working with vulnerable groups.

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Pre-employment checks are an important part of the recruitment process. 

Pre-employment checks help employers to:

  • make sure the individual has permission to work and remain in the UK;
  • make sure he/she is not barred e.g. from working with vulnerable groups or holding a Director-level position;
  • check the person has the skills and qualifications to do the job; and
  • check the individual will be physically able to do the job – although employers must make sure not to discriminate.

For more information visit: https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/pre-employment-checks

Criminal Record Checks

Many criminal convictions become ‘spent’ after a certain length of time has passed.  This means someone looking for employment does not have to mention the conviction after it has become spent, even if they are asked.

However, there are some types of job where this does not apply.  Convictions can never be considered ‘spent’ if you are applying for a job that involves contact with children, young people or vulnerable adult groups.  If someone with a criminal conviction wants to apply for a position working with any of these groups, they must provide details of all convictions.

NIACRO (Northern Ireland Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders) provides specialist advice and guidance to employers and employees in relation to the employment of persons with convictions.

Contact NIACRO at:

NIACRO

Amelia House
4 Amelia Street
Belfast
BT2 7GS

Telephone: 028 9032 0157
Web: https://www.niacro.co.uk/

Last updated: 03 November 2021