Applying for National Security Clearance - Guidance for those experiencing Menopause
Updated 20 February 2024
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Applying for national security clearance can seem like an intrusive process for many individuals - you are required to share personal details about your life via a security questionnaire and in an interview for higher levels of clearance.
We understand through engagement and feedback with those experiencing Menopause, that there may be some concerns when sharing details about this with vetting professionals. We have created this guidance to provide reassurance about your interactions with UKSV.
If you are applying for a higher level of clearance that involves an interview, we will need to discuss things that may feel uncomfortable, such as medication and mental health.
Our Vetting Clearance Officers are trained to approach all parts of the interview with respect and empathy and they will not be making any moral judgement on you based on your responses. Vetting is a whole life process, it is therefore important that we understand your life experiences.
We encourage you to discuss any concerns with your Vetting Clearance Officer, and it is important that you are open and honest throughout the process. Experiencing the Menopause is not a barrier to holding security clearance, and we will work with you to provide a safe space for you to have an honest conversation.
1. Requesting a reasonable adjustment
You can expect to be treated with respect throughout. We have created guidance on how to request a reasonable adjustment as a security vetting applicant, you may find this useful to consider.
2. How to make a complaint
If you feel you have been treated unfairly or discriminated against because you are experiencing the Menopause, at any point during the process, you can complain to us. For more information on how to complain, and what information we require to investigate your complaint, you can find further details on our how to make a complaint page. Please be assured that any complaint you may make will not have a bearing on your vetting application, all complaints are handled by an independent team.
3. Privacy notice
Further information on your data and privacy can be found here.