Welcome to Giant Screening’s comprehensive overview of the new Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) guidelines released in June 2024. This update marks a significant departure from the previous 2018 guidelines, reflecting the advancements in online digital identity verification methods prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for more stringent security measures. For a visual summary, check out the key changes in our video below. However, in this blog we’ll explore each of the core components of the BPSS and compare the old and new guidelines.
In recent months, we’ve provided detailed coverage of the BPSS checks process from the basics and it’s growing significance, to it’s use beyond the public sector as a best practice approach, and it’s recent evolution which can be seen with Giant’s BPSS transforming a process that once took weeks into one that could be completed within just 24 hours. Firstly, we’ll take a look at the updated guidance around identity verification, before moving to right to work checks, employment verifications and the developments around international criminal record checks.
Identity Verification
Old BPSS Guidance (May 2018)
- Paper-Based Verification: Relied heavily on manual checks of physical documents such as passports, driving licenses, and utility bills.
- Commercial Services: Brief mention of commercially available identity verification services, though not emphasised.
- Data Protection: Operated under pre-GDPR laws with limited guidance on data handling.
New BPSS Guidance (June 2024)
- Electronic Verification: Strongly recommends the use of government-approved electronic software for identity verification, confirming employment history, and reviewing criminal records. This modern approach aims to streamline the process and reduce human error.
- Automated Alerts: Introduces real-time alerts for inconsistencies or gaps in employment history, enhancing the reliability of checks.
- GDPR Compliance: Emphasises strict adherence to GDPR and updated data protection laws, ensuring the secure handling of personal data.
- Hybrid Verification: Allows for physical document checks if electronic methods are inconclusive, providing a fallback to ensure accuracy.
Right-to-Work Checks
Old BPSS Guidance (May 2018)
- Manual Document Checks: Primarily depended on physical document verification.
- Legislation: Based on the Immigration, Asylum, and Nationality Act 2006.
- Repeat Checks: Required annual or pre-expiry checks for individuals with limited leave to remain.
New BPSS Guidance (June 2024)
- Enhanced Verification Methods: Advocates for using electronic systems integrated with UKVI databases, such as the Online Share Code system, for more efficient verification.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Updated systems now include automated alerts for any changes in an employee’s immigration status, providing continuous compliance.
- Updated GDPR Compliance: Ensures transparent and secure handling of candidate data throughout the verification process.
- Backup Procedures: Recommends manual checks as a backup if electronic systems fail to provide conclusive results.
Handling Employment Gaps
Old BPSS Guidance (May 2018)
- Verification Period: Focused on the last three years, requiring employer references.
- Gap Analysis: Mandated evidence for gaps longer than 3 months within the 3-year period.
- Manual Investigation: Suggested direct contact with previous employers to verify employment history.
- Record Keeping: Advised retaining documentation related to employment history checks.
New BPSS Guidance (June 2024)
- Verification Period: Continues the focus on the last three years but emphasises digital verification systems for faster and more accurate results.
- Gap Analysis: Now requires evidence for gaps longer than 6 months within the 3-year period, allowing for better scrutiny of employment history.
- Additional Measures: Suggests periodic reviews and additional checks if gaps cannot be verified.
International Criminal Record Checks
Old BPSS Guidance (May 2018)
- Manual Checks: Individuals were responsible for obtaining their own overseas criminal records and providing these to the employer.
- Alternative Documentation: Accepted character references and police certificates as proof of a clean record.
New BPSS Guidance (June 2024)
- Official Channels: Emphasises obtaining official, verifiable overseas police certificates, reducing reliance on potentially less reliable sources.
- Integration with UK Entities: Encourages obtaining references from UK entities based overseas, such as FCDO missions and the British Council.
- Risk Management: Recommends additional risk assessments when meaningful checks cannot be conducted, ensuring a comprehensive vetting process.
- Detailed Process: Provides more thorough instructions, especially for candidates who have lived abroad for over six months in the last three years.
With the new BPSS guidance comes a more efficient, accurate, and secure process which leverages modern technology and stricter compliance standards. These updates ensure that organisations can confidently and reliably verify the backgrounds of individuals accessing sensitive government data and assets.
To learn more about Giant Screening's streamlined BPSS process and how we can support your background screening needs download our handy guide or get in touch with us today !
