What is vetting?
Vetting is the process of checking a candidate’s identity, work history and background. It is a fundamental part of the recruitment process to ensure all the information documented on a candidate’s CV and our registration form is true. Our candidates must provide us with a form of I.D such as a passport, driving license or a recent bill, also any certificates of qualifications as detailed on their CV, written references from previous employers including contact details and permission to verify these references verbally. The industry standard for agencies is to check and verify two references, our company policy is to endeavour to contact all of the candidates previous childcare employers where possible.
All candidates must have a DBS issued within one year and will ideally be on the update service, we can assist candidates who need to apply for one. Overseas candidates are required to provide a police clearance from the country where they live. All candidates are aware and give permission for us to pass on all documents obtained through the vetting process to clients on successful placement.
What is screening?
As well as vetting candidates we also screen candidates based on their skills, experience, and expertise. Our clients come to us because we listen to their exacting requirements, and provide candidates that fit smoothly into their household. This is where vetting and screening go hand in hand. By speaking to both the candidate and their previous employer we can build a picture and get to know the roles our candidates will be perfect for. All of the childcare practitioners registered with us have a minimum of 3 years’ experience working in private households for UK placements and 5 years minimum experience for overseas placements.
Our process
We work closely on complex projects with Elvie Dakin and the team at Pembury Partners Household Consultancy and share the same views of good practice within the industry and mirror their processes. Interviewing candidates and conducting a thorough background checks is a matter of paramount importance, should we not be able to complete this vital process we will not be able to represent the candidate.
Our Director and Founder Tania Pomroy-Smith spoke with the team at Pembury Partners Household Consultancy and shared her thoughts:
“When it comes to hiring employees to work in private households, vetting candidates is crucial. Not only will this ensure that the individuals hired are trustworthy, reliable, and honest, but it is also a way of protecting your personal belongings, the privacy of your family and safeguarding your children.
It is important to thoroughly check the references and background of potential employees, as well as conducting an interview to gauge their character. Hiring the wrong person could have serious consequences, so taking the time to thoroughly examine candidates is an essential step in the hiring process. By properly vetting applicants, you can have peace of mind knowing that your household is in capable and safe hands. ”
