References

1. Purpose

To set out the Council’s position for obtaining employment references for potential candidates and giving employment references to past and present employees; and providing a process to follow.

Policy Statement

Harrow Council will recruit, select and promote all employees in an open, fair, effective and efficient manner. We recognise that recruiting and selecting the right people is central to the provision of high quality services. In addition, the Council has commitments and obligations to the safeguarding in it’s recruitment and selection approaches. References must therefore be taken up for all appointments to Harrow Council.

There is no obligation upon an employer to provide an employment reference. However, it is normal practice for Harrow Council to do so when requested in relation to a past or present employee. References should be written in the “honest belief” that the information being given is correct and must only be given by those of an appropriate grade as set out in the Procedure.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all applicants and existing employees.

The Council’s Agency Workers Policy outlines the process of employment references concerning Agency Workers.

This Policy is strongly recommended for adoption by School Governing Bodies.

3. Equalities and Diversity

The Council is committed to equality and diversity in all aspects of recruitment. Deployment of employees / workers will be managed in accordance with the principles set out in the Council’s Equalities Policy ‘Making a Difference’ and the Council’s Recruitment and Selection Policy and Procedure.