Checks can now be carried out online, by video call, and applicants can send copies of identification electronically instead of posting originals.
The move follows a campaign by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) to secure these changes, helping to get key workers in place quickly while respecting social distancing measures.
Neil Carberry, CEO of the REC said:
“The REC has been campaigning hard to get these changes to Right to Work checks, as a sensible way forward to getting key workers in place during the coronavirus crisis. We are very pleased that the government has listened and taken action.
“These changes mean that Right to work checks for key workers, like doctors and nurses, can now be completed online, respecting social distancing measures. The need for face-to-face interaction, or posting original documents, was an unnecessary barrier which reduced our members ability to place people in jobs where they were needed quickly. Today’s announcement is another example of what can be achieved by government and business organisations working together. We now urge the procurement frameworks to follow government in Health & Social Care and Education.”
