Giving Access to References
There is no longer any such thing as a confidential reference – you have been warned! Employment references from a third party such as a previous employer are subject to the normal access rules. This means that If you receive a written request and a fee of up to £10, it will be a ‘Subject Access Request’ and in most situations, you will have to provide the information. If the reference contains, for example, the referee's opinions, it is a good idea to contact them, if an access application is made, and ask if they mind you disclosing the reference. If the referee says no, you will still need to comply with the request - if it is reasonable in the circumstances. Moral – never provide a reference in terms that are other than you can absolutely stand by; keep all references provided to you.
1 April 2006
