If you have a criminal record

If you have a criminal record it can be get in the way of thinking about your future.

But don't be put off.

There is specialist support available to help you take positive steps into education, training or work. There are specialist advice services just for ex-offenders. There is also help available to sort out other issues in your life.

Job seeking and more

If you have a criminal record and you're looking for a job, course or placement it is very important that you explain the situation to your Connexions Adviser or adviser at the Job Centre. This means they can:

• Tell you about any special schemes or support
• Tell you what you have to tell a potential employer

For some jobs, such as working with children, employers will need to see your police record, but don't be discouraged. Your criminal record will only be part of what a potential employer considers when deciding whether to offer you a job.

Your rights

The fact that someone has a criminal record does not make them unsuitable for work. In fact, employers are legally required not to discriminate. But they will need to think about whether any conviction makes you unsuitable for a job.

When deciding the relevance of convictions, employers will consider:

• The nature of the offence
• The nature of the post
• How long ago the offence was committed
• The frequency and pattern of offence

Any employer that needs to see your criminal record is legally required not to discriminate. But they will need to know that you are the right person for the job. It can help to:

• Show how you used the time positively, e.g. to gain qualifications
• Gain experience as a volunteer
• Explain circumstances

Don't give up

Getting a job is an essential part of rehabilitation, so it is important not to give up, and to use any support that's made available.

You can get support from a Connexions worker or adviser at the Job Cemtre, or from the Resettlement Plus helpline

• Resettlement Plus Helpline
  on 020 7840 6464
  helpline@nacro.org.uk
  Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

Share your stories

We're looking for stories from young people who have successfully moved on in life. How did you leave your criminal conviction behind?

Whatever story you have to tell, email and let us know!

Links

These websites can help you find information advice and guidance around job seeking with a criminal record:

• NACRO
  Resettlement Plus helpline, projects to support reformed offenders and more
• Youth Justice Board
  Oversees the youth justice system in England and Wales
• Unlock
  The National Association of Reformed Offenders

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