Uncontrolled copy when printed which is not subject to amendment
ACP 4
Annex A to Chapter 7
ACO POLICY STATEMENT ON THE APPOINTMENT OF EX-OFFENDERS
Introduction 1.
It is a requirement of both the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Disclosure Scotland
Codes of Practice that all registered bodies must treat disclosure applicants who have a criminal
record fairly and do not discriminate because of a conviction or other information revealed. This
policy statement is to be given to disclosure applicants at the outset of the application process.
Policy Statement 2.
As an organisation using the CRB/Disclosure Scotland disclosure service to assess
applicants’ suitability for positions of trust, the ACO complies fully with the CRB/Disclosure
Scotland Codes of Practice and undertakes to treat all applicants for volunteer positions fairly. It
undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a disclosure on the basis of a
conviction or other information revealed.
3.
The ACO is committed to the fair treatment of its volunteers and potential volunteers,
regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, age,
physical/mental disability or offending background.
4.
We actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, potential
and welcome applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records.
We select all candidates for volunteer service based on their skills, qualifications and experience.
5.
All volunteers in the ACO are subject to disclosure and this is made clear to applicants from
the outset. We encourage all applicants to provide details of their criminal record under separate
cover as part of the verification of identity and application process and we guarantee that this
information will only be seen by those who need to see it as part of the appointment process.
6.
We ensure that all those in the ACO who are involved in the appointment process have been
suitably trained to identify and assess the relevance and circumstances of offences. We also
ensure that they have received appropriate guidance and training in the relevant legislation relating
to the appointment of ex-offenders, eg the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
7.
We ensure that an open and measured discussion takes place on the subject of any offences
or other matter that might be relevant to the position. Failure to reveal information that is directly
relevant to the position sought could lead to withdrawal of an offer of appointment.
8.
We make every subject of a criminal records disclosure aware of the existence of the CRB
and Disclosure Scotland Codes of Practice and make copies available on request.
Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar you from volunteering with the ACO. This
will depend on the circumstances and background of your offences or the information
revealed to us. However, HQ Air Cadets retains the absolute right for appointing and
retaining individuals to volunteer positions within the organisation and is not required to
give a reason when an applicant is not appointed or retained.
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HQ Air Cadets Child Protection Officer
Revision 1.02