Key Updates and Insights for Smarter Hiring in 2025
January Key Updates and Insights | EBC Global

Key Updates and Insights for Smarter Hiring in 2025

We’re excited to bring you the Second Edition of Our LinkedIn Newsletter! Your dedicated source for the latest updates, insights, and industry news in the world of vetting, compliance, and smarter hiring solutions.

As we step into February, staying compliant and streamlining background checks has never been more crucial. This month, we’re bringing you the latest insights on modern employment verification, regulatory updates, and how to leverage technology for faster, more reliable screening. ??


Home Office Right to Work Update: What’s Next?

Last month, we hinted at upcoming changes to UK Right to Work (RTW) checks. However, the December update was limited to the release of UK RTW guidance in Welsh. Other expected updates have yet to appear on the Home Office website.

What We Know So Far

?? Continued Collaboration with DBS – The Home Office has confirmed that it intends to continue to work closely with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with regards to ID verification, although the main focus has now shifted to the upcoming GOV.UK Wallet.?

?? GOV.UK Wallet Launch – The Wallet is set to debut in September 2025, starting solely with UK Driving Licences and HM Armed Forces Veteran Cards. By 2027, it will expand to include passports, marriage certificates, and benefit documents.?

?? Security & Verification – The app will use facial recognition technology, similar to digital banking security systems, to verify identity.?

?? Optional… for Now – While initially entirely voluntary, there are plans to potentially make the GOV.UK Wallet mandatory for individuals receiving government benefits to mitigate fraud.?

We’ll continue monitoring updates and share any key changes as they become available. Stay tuned!?


January's Industry Updates and Insights??


The Importance of Directorship Checks in Light of New Allegations Against Prince Andrew

Prince Andrew has been reported to the Metropolitan Police for allegedly filing false information with Companies House under the pseudonym "Andrew Inverness”.? He has also been accused of listing a London residential address at which he is claimed to have never resided.

This incident just underscores the critical need for both robust directorship checks and company checks as part of an employer’s comprehensive background screening policy.

Read More


Disclosure Scotland Announces Updated Policy on PVG Scheme Fees

Disclosure Scotland has confirmed that, following a public consultation in 2024, they have reversed their proposals and will?keep fees unchanged.

They have also committed to continue to offer?free PVG scheme membership?for volunteers. This decision supports the sector and ensures that financial barriers do not prevent people from contributing their time and skills to valuable causes.

Learn about the effects from April 1st, 2025.


Crucial Wake-Up Call for Employers Amidst the McDonald's Harassment Scandal

The recent harassment scandal surrounding McDonald's in the UK has brought to light the urgent need for employers to take the Worker Protection Act 2024 seriously.

This landmark legislation, which came into force on 26 October 2024, mandates that employers take proactive measures to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

The shocking extent of misconduct highlighted in the McDonald's case, involving over 700 current and former employees, underscores the importance of implementing robust policies to protect workers from harassment and abuse.

Read More


Iceland Foods Proposes Work Opportunities for Low-Risk Offenders as an Alternative to Prison

In a bold move to address prison overcrowding and support offender rehabilitation, Iceland Foods has proposed a groundbreaking initiative: offering low-risk offenders jobs instead of short prison sentences. The proposal, spearheaded by Iceland CEO Richard Walker and Director of Rehabilitation Paul Cowley, was submitted to Lord Timpson, Minister for Prisons, Probation, and Reducing Reoffending.?

Under this scheme, low-risk offenders could avoid incarceration by joining Iceland’s workforce as part of a suspended sentence, focusing on reintegration into society and reducing reoffending rates.

Read More


??New From EBC Global??


Leveraging HMRC PAYE Records | EBC Global Webinar Series

Join us on February 25th at 12 PM (GMT) to learn about Leveraging HMRC PAYE Records

Every employer vetting their staff needs a robust background screening policy to ensure legal compliance, enhance workplace safety, protect company reputation, and reduce hiring risks. Outdated background screening policies can lead to unnecessary risks and missed opportunities to protect your organisation.

That’s why we’re inviting you to our upcoming webinar!


Register Now To Secure Your Spot

In this session, we’ll explore how HMRC PAYE records can revolutionise employment verification - offering faster, more reliable checks while enhancing compliance. Discover how leveraging real-time tax data can help streamline your hiring process.

? Ensure compliance with employment regulations

? Reduce fraud risks with verified employment history

? Speed up hiring by eliminating manual reference checks

Don’t miss out on expert insights and practical applications of HMRC Employment History Verification in modern screening processes.


See you there ??

?? Date: Tuesday, 25th February

? Time: 12 PM (GMT)

??? Hosted by: David Cole

Spots are limited - secure yours today and start 2025 with a smarter hiring strategy!

Register Here


Can't wait for the webinar?

Explore EBC Global’s extensive library of on-demand content to dive into expert insights, industry updates, and practical tips while you wait!


Are DVLA Driver Checks the Missing Piece in Your Hiring Process?

A UK Driver Check is an essential step in verifying the validity, status, and history of a driver’s license. Moreover, it provides critical insights and monitoring for employers, insurers, and organisations that rely on safe, compliant drivers at all times.

This guide will explore everything you need to know about the DVLA check process. It includes:

  • understanding what information is provided
  • navigating regulatory requirements
  • compliance tips and best practices.
  • results received and what this looks like
  • statistics, additional resources and FAQ's

Whether you’re ensuring the legal eligibility of new hires or maintaining current driver compliance with regular re-checks, this comprehensive guide will help you leverage DVLA checks for informed, risk-free decisions.

Read the full article here


Stay in the Know

Have any questions? Visit our website for more details.

Prefer a casual chat? Our team is always here to help—reach out anytime!

Follow us on LinkedIn for real-time updates and the latest industry news.


Together, let’s make 2025 a year of smarter, safer hiring decisions!


Matt Masson

Managing Director @ EBC Global | Reduce pre-employment screening time by 70%

3 周

Great share, thanks EBC ??

Akasha Davis

Digital Marketing Executive at EBC GLOBAL | Fast, Automated, & Secure, Software For Employment Background Checks

3 周

Thanks for sharing, this is a great wrap-up??

要查看或添加评论,请登录

EBC Global的更多文章

社区洞察

其他会员也浏览了