Safe Recruitment Policy

(Including the Recruitment of Ex-Offenders)

Created: May 2018 | Updated: Sept 2026 | Next Review: Sept 2028

Learning Through Theatre (LTT) is committed to the fair treatment of all applicants, including those with criminal records, while ensuring the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults participating in LTT activities. DBS checks form one part of LTT's safe recruitment process and do not replace consideration of an individual's identity, qualifications, experience, references, suitability, professional conduct or safeguarding responsibilities.

Statement of Fair Treatment

As an organisation assessing applicants for freelance positions included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order and using criminal record checks processed through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Learning Through Theatre:

Complies fully with the current DBS Code of Practice;
Undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a criminal record check based on convictions, cautions or other information revealed;
Is committed to ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and are only assessed on their skills, qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.

🔗 DBS Code of Practice: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-code-of-practice

2. Asking About Criminal Records

We only ask an individual to provide information about convictions and cautions that we are legally entitled to know.
Where a role is eligible for a DBS check (standard or enhanced), we will only ask about convictions and cautions not protected under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended) and applicable Police Act Regulations.
This information is collected at the appropriate stage of the recruitment process and handled with care and confidentiality.

3. Working with Children and Young People

Where a role involves working with children or adults and is eligible for a DBS check, LTT will assess the role against current DBS eligibility guidance and obtain the appropriate level of check.
Where a freelance practitioner is self-employed, and the role is eligible for an Enhanced or Enhanced with Barred List DBS check, the practitioner may apply for the appropriate check through an appropriate DBS umbrella body. LTT may request sight of the certificate as part of assessing suitability.

4. Equality and Inclusion

Learning Through Theatre:

Is committed to providing equal opportunities regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, responsibilities for dependants, age, or offending background.
Welcomes applications from all backgrounds, actively promotes diversity in recruitment and does not discriminate unfairly against any subject of a criminal record check on the basis of a conviction, caution or other information revealed.
Selects candidates solely on the basis of the skills, qualifications, and experience that demonstrate their suitability for the role

5. Decision-making

Recruitment decisions are made by Cheryl Stapleton, or by another person appropriately involved in recruitment, where required.
Relevant guidance is consulted when assessing criminal record information or DBS disclosures.

6. Disclosure and Discussion

At interview, or in a separate discussion, Learning Through Theatre ensures that an open and measured discussion takes place on the subject of any offences or other matter that might be revealed on a DBS check, where it is not explicitly stated that such information would be a barrier to employment.

Failure to disclose relevant information could result in a withdrawal of an offer.

Candidates are made aware of the DBS Code of Practice and offered a copy upon request.

Any concerns arising from a DBS certificate will be discussed with the applicant before any offer is withdrawn.