The WRC recommended an independent review of a reference after a health provider withdrew a manager’s prospective post, followed by a new interview and assessment. The recommendation was dated 29 June 2016.
The manager said he was highest on the recruitment panel before a negative reference led to the post being withdrawn. He believed the reference was incorrect and damaging. The health provider said it was given in good faith as part of its selection process, and two internal appeals had not changed the decision.
The WRC recommended that the parties agree an independent reviewer to consult the manager and the person who provided the reference, then report to the selection body. It also recommended a further interview and reassessment by an agreed internal manager. The health provider was asked to request a review of the selection body’s procedures so candidates could appeal before a suitability decision was finalised.