Recruitment of Ex-Offenders Policy

2023

The Application Process

RWNS aims to treat all applicants for volunteer roles fairly and not to discriminate unfairly against a disclosure of any convictions, or information revealed in a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. 

On the volunteer application form, candidates will be asked to disclose any convictions. If a candidate discloses a conviction, we will work with them on a case by case basis, ensuring an open and measured review takes place of any offences that might be relevant to the volunteer role.

During the application process, candidates will also be required to supply details of 2 references. References will be asked if they have any concerns around the candidate working with vulnerable people. Candidates cannot start volunteering until these references are received.

DBS Checks

RWNS uses criminal records checks through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) as part of our process of onboarding new volunteers. 

We only request a DBS check after a thorough risk assessment has indicated  one is needed for the particular role. This includes befriending and hosting at the Welcome Cafe. Where a DBS check is required, we provide this information on our website and during the application process.

Management of information received through DBS checks

1. Negative checks – the date of the DBS check and confirmation that it was negative will be recorded on the volunteer database. 
2. Positive checks – this will be discussed by the Chair, Volunteer Coordinator and applicant. The Chair will ultimately decide on the suitability of an applicant for the post applied for, and might offer an alternate volunteer role. The DBS check information will be kept in a file confidentially online. It will also be recorded on the volunteer database that this person has a positive check.

Confidentiality

Personal information relating to members of volunteers will be held confidentially online, and only the Volunteer Coordinator and Chair will have access to this.