Background screening expert calls for a delay to in-person RTW checks

mei 5th, 2021

Specialist background screening and identity services firm, Sterling, has called for a delay to the return of in-person Right to Work (RTW) checks, warning that the timing isn’t in line with overall plans to re-open offices.

Steve Smith, Managing Director EMEA, Sterling, explained:

“The timing of this decision is arguably too soon when we consider that Covid-restrictions are still in place and some offices won’t be re-opening until the summer. With limitations as to where and when in-person checks can be carried out in a Covid-safe way, the RTW process itself will become increasingly time-heavy, impacting some workers’ start dates, which won’t be conducive to supporting the economic recovery.

“Perhaps more importantly, though, we feel that the success of the remote RTW check process throughout the pandemic shouldn’t be overlooked. While we recognise that in-person checks may be necessary when the time is right, the progress that has been made through utilising technology can improve the process and better identify fraud in the future, and this opportunity shouldn’t be missed. Many companies have built digital and biometric identity checks into their screening programmes which has in turn decreased the potential of identity fraud – progress that should be built upon.

“The work that went into getting the RTW share code process in place has also proven highly valuable over the last 18 months and the tool has, in many instances, streamlined the RTW process itself. We do recognise that in-person is sometimes a necessity, but a complete return to pre-pandemic processes would undo the fantastic developments we’ve seen in the employment screening world and we urge the Government to consider a possible hybrid approach.”

About Sterling
Sterling—a leading provider of background and identity services—offers a foundation of trust and safety that spans across industries, professions, and borders. Our technology-powered services help organisations create great environments for their workers, partners, and customers. With office locations around the world, Sterling conducts more than 75 million searches annually. Visit Sterling online at nl.sterlingcheck.co.uk.

Media Contact: Jamie Serino
jamie.serino@sterlingcheck.com | 001.646.435.2263

Deze publicatie dient uitsluitend ter informatie en niets in deze publicatie mag worden opgevat als juridisch advies. Wij wijzen uitdrukkelijk elke garantie of verantwoordelijkheid af voor schade die voortvloeit uit deze informatie. Wij raden u aan uw juridisch adviseur te raadplegen met betrekking tot uw specifieke behoeften. Wij zijn niet verplicht om eerder geplaatst materiaal bij te werken.