Code of practice

Organisations that process criminal record checks are required to comply with the Code of Practice of the processing body they are applying through.

The Code of Practice is intended to guarantee that any information released as part of the checking process is used fairly. The Code also seeks to ensure that sensitive, personal information is handled and stored appropriately, and is kept only for as long as is necessary.

The Code of Practice requires that organisations adopt:

• Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders policy.
• A policy on the secure storage, handling, use, retention and disposal of disclosure information.

These could be included as part of a general Equal Opportunities policy.

A policy statement on the recruitment of ex-offenders and the handling of information should be included within your organisation’s safeguarding policy.

Failure to follow this could result in an individual or organisation not fulfilling their obligations and may mean they are breaking the law.