Criminal records

Declaring criminal records

If you have been sentenced for a crime then you will get a criminal record even if you were given an absolute discharge. This can cause difficulties in some situations. For example if you are applying for a job you may be asked if you have a criminal record. However, if you are not asked you don't have to say.

What if I am asked about my conviction(s)?

Then you need to say. But, if a length of time called the 'rehabilitation period' has passed since your conviction you no longer have to declare you have a criminal record. However, there are some exceptions to this:

• If you are applying for a job which provides accommodation, care, leisure and recreational facilities, schooling, social services, supervision or training to young people aged under 18.
• If you are applying for work which provides social services care to elderly people, mentally or physically disabled people, alcohol or drug misusers or the chronically sick.
• If you are applying to work in the administration of justice e.g. as a police officer, probation officer or traffic warden.
• If you are applying to join certain professions e.g. lawyer, doctor, dentist, nurse, chemist and accountant.
• If you are applying for certain jobs involving national security (e.g. civil service, defence contractors etc).

To find out more read TheSite factsheet: Employment with a criminal history >>