What are the most common mistakes when completing vetting applications and how can these be avoided?
Missing information – take your time and carefully read through the questions and any available guidance.
Always be honest – if you’re asking yourself whether you need to declare something on your vetting form, include it. The vetting unit will discount any information that is not required.
If you can’t remember or provide specific details include a rationale detailing why.
Provide your full address history (including any student accommodation).
Always provide a full list of family members, including half siblings, stepfamily and the full details of a partner or spouse.
Including details of boyfriend/girlfriend under the spouse/partner section. We require details of those with whom you are co-residing as partners or those you are married or in a civil partnership with)
Make sure you provide maiden names, dates of birth and addresses for all the people listed on your vetting forms.
Declare all previous interactions with the police. All police involvement is recorded on our systems; if you fail to declare it your honesty and integrity could come into question.
For police staff and volunteer roles, protected cautions and convictions do no have to be disclosed as per the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
Include details of any criminal associates – this includes friends, family members and those you live with.