Vetting Officer

Vetting Officers use police databases and other relevant systems and information, in line with force vetting policy, undertaking research into individuals who work, or who have applied to work, within the police service or for contractors who have access to police assets. This includes reviewing professional and private life, financial affairs, associations and employment history. This role identifies and assesses risks so that effective vetting decisions are made and, when appropriate, risk mitigation measures are put in place.

• Review vetting applications to ensure they are complete and comply with force policy and procedure.

• Carry out the full range of checks specified in the force’s vetting policy, to ensure that all relevant information is obtained.

• Liaise with other forces and national agencies on individual cases, requesting and providing information to enable vetting decision-making.

• Identify potential vulnerabilities and any matters relating to an applicant’s suitability for vetting clearance which may be a potential threat to security to highlight areas which may require further research and investigation prior to vetting clearance decision being made.

• Conduct further research and investigation into applicant’s suitability for vetting clearance to further assess any potential vulnerabilities which might cause potential threats to security.

• Conduct interviews with candidates, where necessary to clarify information, to ensure that vetting decisions are based on an appropriate understanding of that information.

• Carry out risk assessments of information gathered in the context of a vetting application or request, to identify risk mitigation measures and ensure the production of an auditable rationale for vetting decisions.

• Prepare vetting reports to the highest standard, to issue clearance, escalate more contentious cases, or to set out the reasons for refusal together with the relevant evidence in line with national and local guidance.

• Maintain full records of vetting activities and decisions made, to ensure that decisions are transparent and open to audit and review.

• Act as a first point of contact for vetting matters in force to provide advice and guidance and to support colleagues in the gathering and interpretation of information, and support the application of local and national guidance.

Prior education and experience:
• Good general level of education to GCSE standard (or equivalent).

• Thorough knowledge and practical understanding of the College of Policing Vetting Code of Practice and associated College of Policing Guidance, and local force vetting policy.

• Knowledge and practical understanding of relevant legislation.

• Experience of working with confidential and / or sensitive information.

• Experience of working as part of a team.

• Trained in interviewing.

Skills:
• Able to develop effective working relationships with colleagues, partners and other stakeholders.

• Able to maintain a professional relationship with people in adversarial circumstances.

• Able to identify and evaluate risks, and to take appropriate, proportionate action.

• Able to interpret and apply guidance to a specific activity.

• Skilled in using force computer-based databases and physical filing systems.

• Skilled in the use of standard IT packages, systems and/or databases to fulfil role requirements.

• Good communication skills with the ability to listen to others.

• Able to produce concise, accurate reports.

• Able to appropriately prioritise and plan own work.

• Able to review own performance objectively and to take steps to maintain and enhance competence and professional standards appropriate to the role.

• Maintain an up to date understanding of the College Vetting Code of Practice and Guidance.

• Network with other Vetting Officers to exchange ideas.

• Undertake lessons learned within the force for improving vetting performance.

• Not applicable.

• Vetting Manager
• Vetting Supervisor