Overview
Having found a suitable candidate, you must undertake appropriate pre-employment checks. These checks help ensure that individuals are legally entitled to work, are suitable for their role, and meet the professional and regulatory expectations associated with working in dentistry. Taking a consistent and methodical approach at this stage supports safe practice, protects patients and staff, and reduces the risk of compliance issues arising later.
Pre-employment checks play an important role in demonstrating that a practice has taken reasonable steps when appointing new members of the dental team, whether from the UK or overseas. They form part of good governance and sit alongside wider employment responsibilities, including safeguarding obligations and adherence to employment law. While some checks apply to all roles, others are dependent on the nature of the work being undertaken and the level of responsibility involved.
Assessing a candidate’s employment history is one aspect of this process; examining previous roles, experience and conduct. Establishing the legal right to work in the UK is another core requirement, and applies regardless of whether a role is clinical or non-clinical. Failure to address this requirement can carry significant legal and reputational consequences for practices.
The rules regarding hiring staff from overseas have changed markedly over the past decade, so it is essential to know where to go to check an applicant’s right to work in the UK, and the steps you must take to make sure you are operating within the law.
In addition, certain roles may require further consideration, including matters relating to health and fitness to work, safeguarding responsibilities, and professional or statutory registration requirements.
A clear understanding of pre-employment checks helps practices approach recruitment confidently, apply appropriate scrutiny, and ensure that appointments are made responsibly. When handled carefully, these checks support the effective running of the practice and contribute to the delivery of safe, high-quality patient care.
