UK government gives thumbs up to screening and identity services firm

Background screening and identity services firm, Sterling, has become the first such organisation to become a certified digital identity service provider (IDSP), under the UK Digital Identity & Attributes Trust Framework, for UK Right to Work and DBS Criminal Record checks.

The company, which meets the requirements of the trust framework, can employ in-session biometric and document verification to confirm a job candidate’s identity. This fulfils the standards to digitally process DBS Criminal Record and UK Right to Work (RTW) checks. In addition, the company can provide employers with a statutory excuse for UK Right to Work.

The digital nature of these checks is set to reduce turnaround times, improve accuracy, and reduce the chance of identity fraud.

Steve Smith, President International at Sterling, commented: “We are delighted to announce that Sterling is the first identity and background screening service provider to become a certified digital identity service provider (IDSP). IDSP’s can carry out digital identity verification to a range of standards or levels of confidence, and this development will improve the experience for both the job candidate and the employer.”

“In addition, Sterling’s certification as an IDSP is well timed, particularly as the competition for talent intensifies and with growing concerns around identity fraud. While some businesses may not immediately recognise the advantage of using an IDSP, the introduction of digital identity should be viewed by employers as a positive change: Working with a registered IDSP will allow firms to benefit from technology that can significantly improve the candidate experience, as well as the speed and accuracy of their background checks.”