GENERAL

What is the Fair Recruitment Charter?
The Fair Recruitment Charter is a voluntary certification and trustmark that recognises organisations committed to fair, transparent, and ethical hiring practices. It applies to both in-house talent teams and recruitment agencies.

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Who is the Charter for?
The Charter is open to employers, recruitment agencies, and hiring teams of all sizes and sectors who want to demonstrate a commitment to ethical recruitment standards.

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Is this just for UK-based organisations?
Initially, yes — we are launching in the UK first, but we’re exploring international expansion as interest grows.

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BENEFITS & CREDIBILITY

Why should we sign up?
Certification helps you stand out to candidates, improve your employer brand, and join a community of like-minded, responsible employers. It also supports internal improvements in recruitment standards and accountability.

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Is this just a badge for marketing?
No. While the trustmark is a visible part of the certification, it's backed by a real commitment to values, a structured pledge, and (at higher tiers) optional peer review and evidence-based verification.

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How do you ensure members follow the standards?
We rely on a combination of self-assessment, peer accountability, community feedback, and optional audits for advanced certification levels.

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CRITERIA & COMPLIANCE

What are the core commitments of the Charter?
Key principles include:

• No fake or placeholder jobs

• Roles must be approved and budgeted

• Pay transparency (salary or range must be stated)

• Reasonable number of interviews

• Timely candidate feedback

• Responsible use of AI and applicant tracking systems

• Commitment to inclusive and bias-free hiring

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Do we have to show evidence?
For the basic level, no — it's self-certified. Higher certification levels involve light-touch evidence or peer-review from another certified member.

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What if we fall short on some criteria?
We provide guidance, templates, and support to help you get there. The aim is progress, not perfection.

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AI & TECHNOLOGY

How does this relate to AI in hiring?
We encourage transparency around the use of AI — including applicant tracking systems (ATS), CV screening tools, and generative AI. The Charter promotes responsible use of these tools to ensure fairness, especially in the early stages of selection.

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What if candidates are using AI too?
We recognise that candidates may use AI tools (e.g. to write CVs or cover letters). Rather than penalising this, we encourage recruiters to adapt and focus on values-fit, communication skills, and real-world performance indicators.

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JOINING & FEES

How do we join the Charter?
You can apply via our website by completing a short pledge form. We’ll guide you through the onboarding steps.

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Is there a cost to join?
There’s a small annual membership fee (tiered by organisation size) to help fund the scheme and maintain independence. We also offer discounts for non-profits and early supporters.

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Do we get a badge or logo?
Yes — certified members receive digital badges and branding assets to use on job ads, websites, and email signatures.

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TYPES OF ORGANISATIONS

What’s the difference between in-house and agency certification?
We offer two tailored tracks:

• In-House Certification: for employers and HR teams

• Agency Certification: for recruitment firms and consultants
  Each has its own criteria and community, but both share the same commitment to fairness and integrity.

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Can freelancers or small agencies join?
Yes — absolutely. We welcome recruiters of all sizes, including sole traders and independent consultants.

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GOVERNANCE & TRANSPARENCY

Who runs the Fair Recruitment Charter?
The Charter is operated by a UK-based Community Interest Company (CIC) with input from industry stakeholders, HR leaders, and DE&I professionals.

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Is this a government initiative?
No — it’s independent and industry-led. That said, we welcome public sector participation and will seek alignment with policy where appropriate.

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NEXT STEPS

Can we help shape the Charter?
Yes — we’re actively recruiting founding members, contributors, and advisors. If you’d like to be involved, please get in touch.

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Where can we learn more?
Visit our About page, or contact us directly at hello@fairrecruitmentcharter.org.