2. References
If requested, HR can provide your prospective employer with a reference on behalf of the department. This will give factual information on the basis on which you were employed (eg permanent or fixed term contract), your length of your service and details of the posts you have held.
HR’s name and address may also be given to:
- any other employer seeking a reference from the Department in the future
- mortgage lenders, licensed credit brokers etc. seeking information
Managers may provide personal references for members of their staff – both present and past – but must:
- not use official stationery
- make it clear that they are not writing on behalf of the Department but as a private individual
- limit the information provided to their direct knowledge of the individual concerned, do not refer to the officer’s competence in his or her work
- consult Human Resources if in any doubt about propriety
Individuals may be open to legal action if, for example, the reference is misleading or defamatory, in the same way as a former employer.
