UKSV Code of Conduct - Interviewee Guidance on Unacceptable Behaviour
Updated 31 October 2025
© Crown copyright 2025
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/vetting-explained-and-our-vetting-charter/uksv-code-of-conduct-interviewee-guidance-on-unacceptable-behaviour
1. Purpose
This Code of Conduct serves to manage incidents of unacceptable behaviour within UKSV consistently and fairly, protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of all individuals accessing our services, under the provisions of the Equality Act 2010.
2. Scope
This policy is applicable to all individuals interacting with UKSV vetting service. It encompasses all forms of communication and interaction, both physical and digital.
3. Unacceptable Behaviour
Unacceptable behaviour is defined as any actions, words, or gestures causing distress or discomfort. This includes but is not limited to:
- Any form of physical violence or threats of physical violence or aggression against our staff or any departments associated with the vetting service.
- Consistent inappropriate use of rude or offensive language. E.g. insulting or degrading language, including inappropriate humour, innuendo or malicious allegations. This also includes derogatory, racist, sexist, ageist, or homophobic remarks and comments relating to disability, perceived gender, religion, belief, or any other personal characteristics towards the vetting staff.
- Sexual harassment is unacceptable and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
- Obstructive or evasive behaviour that hinders the vetting process during the interview.
- Insist your vetting process is dealt with in ways that go against our vetting procedure.
- Recording the meetings and conversations during the vetting process.
- Any behaviour that can be perceived as a criminal act.
- Attending the interview inappropriately dressed, lack of attire or state of undress; that is not conducive to the professional setting.
4. Expectations of Conduct
Individuals are expected to:
- Uphold integrity and honesty, providing truthful information.
- Demonstrate professionalism, including appropriate attire and punctuality.
- Respect diversity and inclusion, embracing varied perspectives.
- Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
- Comply with lawful and ethical standards.
- Exhibit accountability, owning their actions and words.
5. Procedural Actions
Upon identification of unacceptable behaviour, the following steps may be taken:
- Issuance of a verbal warning.
- Termination of interview proceedings if behaviour persists.
- Escalation to relevant authorities in cases of criminal conduct or extreme threats.
- Withdrawal of services, should conduct remain unchanged.
6. Right to Appeal
In the event of a decision to cease service, affected parties will receive notification including guidance on challenging the decision through appropriate channels. All actions and decisions are subject to regular review.