Disclosure checks
(and how annoying they are).
I’m going to put in a disclaimer here – I do not for one second think people shouldn’t be checked before going into certain jobs. I just disagree with the way it’s done over here.
As it currently stands you need to apply for a Disclosure check every time you apply for a job or position which may put you in a position of care of a child or vulnerable adult. (I’m almost certain there are other reasons but that’s the main ones). The form isn’t exactly fun, you’ll need to wait about 3 weeks and may have to fork out £20 to pay for it. Once you’ve done it more than one it’s just plain annoying. Even if you have a clean Disclosure for one job you must get another for a different job (regardless of how long is between them). They expect you, however, to inform your employer if you get a conviction.
My collection is only 3 at the moment although some people have around 5 or 6 of these things. Surely it would be much more efficient if you got a global one (applying to all jobs) that you got reissued every few years. If you get a conviction then the court requests the Disclosure and changes it or tears it up (or something). I’ve heard this is something like the practice in other countries so surely we could make it more sensible.
I have 19 disclosures to my name, i think u should start a poll and see just how riddiculous it gets. They do have plans to change the system to a more universal longer lasting check but its a long time coming, dont hold your breath!
Poll coming up! I read about them changing the system apparently soon but knowing the government and IT who knows what it’ll turn out like.