FAQs: Do I have to tell an employer about my criminal record?

You have to declare all criminal convictions, or any still pending, unless they are ‘spent’. A criminal record will not necessarily prevent you from getting into your career.

Certain jobs and courses such as teaching, health and social work are ‘excepted’ from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA) and require that you disclose all convictions, even those that are spent.

If you want to work with children or vulnerable adults then you will have to declare any conviction. To work in teaching, health or social work you will have a Disclosure and Barring Service  check.

A criminal record will not necessarily prevent you from getting into your career but if you have concerns about this speak to your careers adviser.