Employer Attitudes to Employing People with Criminal Convictions

Despite the benefits of inclusive hiring, our research shows that 1 in 5 UK employers automatically reject a candidate who discloses a criminal conviction. This is in stark contrast to the experiences of employers who have recruited from this group, many of whom report equal or higher levels of commitment, resilience and trustworthiness compared to their peers.

Reed in Partnership is proud to launch our latest report exploring employer attitudes toward recruiting people with criminal convictions. Based on a survey of over 1,000 UK employers, the findings reveal both progress and persistent barriers in inclusive recruitment, highlighting the critical role employment plays in reducing reoffending and strengthening communities.

To make meaningful progress, we suggest that employers:

• Develop a clear, honest, and consistently communicated policy on recruiting people with criminal convictions - one that signals commitment and builds trust.
• Provide practical guidance and support for hiring managers, helping them assess risk fairly and apply the organisation’s values in real-world decisions.
• Ensure ongoing support for both employer and employee, fostering a workplace culture where inclusion isn’t just supported, it’s expected at every level.

This report compares employer attitudes from 2013 to 2025, shares insights from our employer network, and offers practical steps to help businesses build inclusive, resilient workforces. We invite employers across the UK to read the report and consider how they can be part of the solution.

Read the full report below.

Download the full report →