New NHS checks need to be flexible says REC

New standards on pre-employment checks in the NHS have been broadly welcomed by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).

However, whilst recognising the importance of a focus on safe recruitment issues, the REC has also called for some flexibility to be built into the new requirements and for this same focus to be reflected in NHS procurement of recruitment services.

Commenting on the publication of the new NHS Employers standards, REC director of external relations, Tom Hadley, said that recruitment agencies already play a key role by not only placing highly skilled workers into key positions at very short notice but also undertaking all the necessary vetting procedures.

He explained the reality is that the recruitment carried out through agencies is, in many instances, the most thoroughly monitored and it is important that the same criteria and checking procedures apply equally to all recruitment within the NHS.

In addition, the increasing focus on the quality and safety of recruitment procedures is positive but must be reflected in the way that recruitment services are procured in order to ensure the right balance between cost control and the quality of service.

Recruiters in the medical sector are keen to come forward with practical solutions on meeting face to face requirements in a cost effective way, added Hadley. The REC will continue to engage positively with NHS Employers and NHS PASA on this issue to explore possible flexibilities such as enabling recognised third parties to conduct the face-to-face check.