documents - while avoiding discrimination, says Jacqui Mann
Checking the identity and credentials of people before employing them is an essential but sensitive task. It must be carried out for all employees; only carrying out checks on people you believe not to be British citizens could open you to accusations of discrimination.
The Government's code of practice has statutory force and may be taken into account by courts and tribunals. I would advise all employers to include it as part of their best practice. It advises employers to:
It is important to get this right, as there is a stiff penalty for employing an illegal worker - the maximum civil penalty is £20,000. And, if you are found to have 'knowingly employed' an illegal worker, you could be jailed for up to two years and receive an unlimited fine.
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