Public Trust Clearance Template for England and Wales

A Public Trust Clearance is a basic security screening level used by UK government departments and agencies for positions that don't require full security clearance but still involve access to sensitive information. It's less intensive than Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV) clearances, making it common for civil service roles and contractors working with public sector organizations.

The clearance involves checking criminal records, financial history, and basic background verification to ensure someone can be trusted with public resources and information. While not as stringent as higher-level clearances, it helps organizations maintain security standards in line with the Official Secrets Act and Civil Service guidelines. Most public trust positions need this clearance before staff can start work.

Public Trust Clearance becomes essential when hiring for roles that handle sensitive government information but don't require full security vetting. This applies particularly to administrative positions in civil service departments, local councils, and organizations managing public resources or data. It's also needed for contractors working on government projects or accessing official systems.

The clearance proves most valuable during recruitment for roles involving financial oversight, public records management, or regular contact with vulnerable populations. For example, housing officers, benefits administrators, and procurement specialists typically need this level of clearance. It offers a practical balance between security needs and operational efficiency in public sector settings.

• Basic-level clearance for general administrative access to public resources and non-classified information
• Moderate-risk clearance for roles handling financial data or sensitive personal information in local government
• Enhanced clearance for positions with regular access to vulnerable groups or critical infrastructure systems
• Contractor-specific clearance for temporary workers and consultants on government projects
• Department-specific variations tailored to unique ministry requirements and risk levels

• Government HR Departments: Process and manage Public Trust Clearance applications for new hires and internal transfers
• Civil Service Managers: Request clearances for team members and ensure compliance with security protocols
• Security Vetting Officers: Conduct background checks and assess clearance applications against set criteria
• Job Applicants: Complete required forms and provide necessary documentation for clearance processing
• External Contractors: Obtain clearance before accessing government systems or facilities
• Department Security Officers: Monitor and maintain clearance records within their organizations

• Personal Information: Gather full name, date of birth, current address, and previous addresses for the past 5 years
• Employment History: Compile detailed work records including dates, employers, and references for the past 3 years
• Criminal Record Check: Request basic DBS certificate or relevant police checks
• Financial Background: Collect information about bankruptcy records and significant financial commitments
• Identity Documents: Prepare passport, driving licence, or other approved ID forms
• Role Requirements: Document specific access levels and security needs for the position
• Department Details: Include relevant government department codes and security protocols

• Personal Declaration: Applicant's sworn statement confirming accuracy of all provided information
• Consent Section: Clear authorization for background checks and data processing under GDPR
• Security Protocol: Specific access levels and restrictions based on role requirements
• Confidentiality Terms: Official Secrets Act acknowledgment and information handling obligations
• Verification Details: Identity confirmation and documentation requirements
• Duration Clause: Validity period and renewal requirements for the clearance
• Department Authority: Issuing body's details and authorizing officer's signature block
• Review Rights: Process for appealing decisions or requesting reassessment

Public Trust Clearance differs significantly from an Access Control Policy in both scope and application, though they're often confused because both deal with security and access management. While Public Trust Clearance focuses on individual vetting for government positions, an Access Control Policy sets organization-wide rules for system and facility access.

• Purpose and Scope: Public Trust Clearance evaluates individual trustworthiness for public sector roles, while Access Control Policy establishes broad security protocols for all staff
• Legal Framework: Public Trust operates under civil service and security vetting regulations, whereas Access Control Policies fall under organizational governance and data protection laws
• Duration: Public Trust Clearance requires periodic renewal and personal re-verification, while Access Control Policies remain continuously active until formally updated
• Implementation: Public Trust involves extensive background checks and personal history, while Access Control focuses on technical controls and procedural standards