If you’re reading this, you might be worried about how having a criminal record could affect your life. It’s a common concern, especially for those who are facing their first investigation or conviction. You might be thinking: will having a criminal record ruin your chances at getting a job, finding housing, or living a normal life?
The good news is that while a criminal record can create some challenges, it doesn’t have to mean the end of your future. Many people with a criminal record go on to live successful, fulfilling lives. However, understanding how your criminal record might impact different aspects of your life is crucial so you can take the right steps moving forward.
What Is a Criminal Record?
Before diving into how a criminal record might affect you, let’s first clarify what a criminal record is.
A criminal record is essentially a record of your interactions with the criminal justice system. This includes arrests, cautions, charges, and convictions. These records are stored in the Police National Computer (PNC), and they can show up on background checks when you apply for jobs, housing, or even some services.
It’s important to understand that there’s a difference between having a “criminal record” in general and what shows up in a background check. A criminal record includes all of your interactions with the criminal justice system, whether you were arrested, cautioned, charged, or convicted. But what shows up on a background check depends on the type of check being carried out and the specific offences on your record.
How Will a Criminal Record Affect My Job Search?
One of the most common worries is how a criminal record will impact your ability to find a job. The reality is that having a criminal record can make it more challenging to get hired, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to get a job at all.
What Employers Can See
There are two main types of background checks that employers use in the UK: standard DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks and enhanced DBS checks. These checks are used to determine whether you have any criminal convictions or cautions.
- Standard DBS Checks: This type of check is used for most jobs, and it will show any unspent convictions or cautions on your record. However, some convictions and cautions are “filtered out” after a certain period, meaning they won’t appear on the check.
- Enhanced DBS Checks: These checks are required for jobs that involve working with vulnerable groups, such as children or vulnerable adults. An enhanced DBS check goes beyond just showing convictions and cautions; it can include other information the police believe might be relevant, such as arrests or cautions where you weren’t convicted.
Spent Convictions
Under UK law, after a certain amount of time has passed, some convictions become “spent,” meaning they no longer have to be disclosed. The time period varies depending on the offence and the sentence. For instance, a conviction for a minor offence (e.g., theft) may become spent after 5 or 10 years. For more serious offences, like violent crimes, it might take longer before they are considered spent.
Once a conviction is spent, you are legally allowed to say that you don’t have a criminal record. However, there are exceptions. For example, if you’re applying for jobs that require an enhanced DBS check, a spent conviction may still be revealed. But for most jobs, spent convictions don’t need to be disclosed.
What You Can Do
If you’re worried about how your criminal record might affect your job search, there are a few things you can do:
- Be Honest: If you’re asked about your criminal record on a job application or in an interview, be honest. Lying about your record can result in losing the job, even after you’ve been hired. If the offence is spent, you don’t need to disclose it, but if it’s unspent, it’s better to be upfront.
- Seek Legal Advice: If you’re unsure about whether your convictions are spent or what you need to disclose, seek legal advice. This can help you understand your rights and responsibilities in the job application process.
- Consider Jobs That Don’t Require DBS Checks: Some jobs, particularly those that don’t require an enhanced DBS check, may be more open to applicants with criminal records. These could include roles in the private sector, trades, or creative industries.
How Will a Criminal Record Affect My Housing Situation?
Finding a place to live can also be more challenging if you have a criminal record. Landlords and housing agencies often conduct background checks to make sure prospective tenants don’t have a history of criminal behaviour.
While having a criminal record doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be denied housing, it can make the process more complicated.
What Landlords Can See
In the UK, landlords don’t typically conduct criminal record checks themselves, but they may require a DBS check if they feel it’s necessary. However, many landlords and housing agencies rely on credit checks, references, and other personal information rather than a criminal record check.
What You Can Do
If you’re worried that a criminal record might affect your housing prospects, there are some steps you can take:
- Explain Your Situation: If a landlord asks about your criminal record, be honest. Offer an explanation of the circumstances and show that you have made efforts to move forward. It can also help to offer references from employers or other reputable people who can vouch for your character.
- Seek Support from Housing Charities: Some charities and organisations can assist people with criminal records in finding housing. They can offer guidance on how to navigate the housing system and may be able to connect you with landlords who are more willing to rent to people with a past.
- Consider Specialist Housing Options: Some organisations offer accommodation for people with criminal records, helping them reintegrate into society.
How Will a Criminal Record Affect My Social Life?
While your criminal record can affect your job and housing prospects, it can also impact your social life. If your criminal record includes serious offences, people may have a different perception of you. This can affect your relationships with friends, family, and even potential romantic partners.
What You Can Do
- Be Open About Your Past: If you feel comfortable, being open with close friends and family members about your past can help them understand your situation. Being honest and transparent is key to rebuilding trust.
- Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Find a support network of people who understand your past and are willing to help you move forward. This could include friends, family, support groups, or counselling services.
- Focus on Positive Changes: Show others that you’ve made positive changes in your life. Volunteer work, further education, or positive employment can demonstrate to others that you’re committed to rebuilding your life.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with a Criminal Record
Having a criminal record doesn’t have to mean the end of your future. Yes, it may present some challenges, but many people with criminal records go on to live successful and fulfilling lives. The key is to understand how your criminal record may affect different aspects of your life and take proactive steps to address those challenges.
By being honest about your record, seeking legal advice when necessary, and focusing on making positive changes in your life, you can overcome the hurdles a criminal record may present. Remember, a criminal record is just one part of your past — it doesn’t define who you are or who you can become.
