A bit of perspective please - screening requirements post-offer

[mookle]

I've been quite fortunate in the past; the overwhelming majority of my contracts have been private sector and direct with the client... However, I now I find myself dealing with a private sector client via an agent and the amount of employee-related screening involved is staggering!

I understand that the checks are what they are (PSC or employee; I can either comply with the agents/client policies or turn the contract down) but I'd be grateful for some perspective... Is it normal for someone operating via a PSC to have to submit address history, NI number, and references? The role doesn't require any sort of SC.

[Eirikur]

It is normal if you are going to work in any regulated industry such as finance, betting & gaming, utilities, etc

[NotAllThere]

... Is it normal for someone operating via a PSC to have to submit ... references?

http://forums.contractoruk.com/busin...eferences.html

[mookle]

http://forums.contractoruk.com/busin...eferences.html

That discussion is centered around reference requests before the interview stage (which is clearly an agency trying their luck) but I'm wondering about the same once an offer has been made, in the private sector, where SC is not needed.

[SueEllen]

It depends on the client which is why you won't get an answer.

Now you know why you should sign up to those things that keep you updated on your credit file, check it monthly and take proactive action including threatening any provider who threatens to blacklist you via your credit file.

[mookle]

It is normal if you are going to work in any regulated industry such as finance, betting & gaming, utilities, etc

Thanks Eirikur, I think that might well be it

[mookle]

It depends on the client which is why you won't get an answer.

Now you know why you should sign up to those things that keep you updated on your credit file, check it monthly and take proactive action including threatening any provider who threatens to blacklist you via your credit file.

I think that's what has taken me by surprise the most during this process; questions that would normally be dealt with quickly so that both parties can get on level footing are met with "dunno why we need that, client wants it" end of story. As I said, I think I've been spoilt in the past...

[SuperZ]

Does seem to be getting worse though, or is that better? Just found myself doing a disclosure Scotland too for a non-public sector/non-financial role, first time ever.
Just make a note of everything for your records as it'll make it easier to do next time, at least 3 years of contact details for referee's and last 5 years of addresses. Also had to fill in a load of questions around IR35, whether PSC or Ltd, and if limited, even questions on whether I sought legal advice first!
Also, make sure you have all the correct insurances in place too - now seems to be always asked for.

[SueEllen]

I think that's what has taken me by surprise the most during this process; questions that would normally be dealt with quickly so that both parties can get on level footing are met with "dunno why we need that, client wants it" end of story. As I said, I think I've been spoilt in the past...

I've had a few roles now where the agent and/or consultancy don't know things varying from the simple expected number of working hours to more complex screening procedures.

So now I ensure I get a client contact details at interview so I can and do ask if the agency doesn't know or appears to be bulltulipting.

[BrilloPad]

Is it normal for someone operating via a PSC to have to submit address history, NI number, and references?

Yes. It gets more intrusive every year. And the checking is done by very poorly paid people - and there aren't many of them. Its very frustrating when you submit what they ask for, then a week later they say "okay, we need a picture of you standing on your head". So a week is wasted. Why not check you have everything you need straight away? Grrrrrrr

2 years ago my start date was delayed 3 times. I start a new gig next Monday. I got the offer 9 weeks ago. I refused to hand in my notice until every check was done. The client manager understood my decision, and harassed HR mercilessly. Not that it did any good.