Is giving bad references illegal UK?

Is giving bad references illegal UK?

Despite what many people think, employment law in most countries does not actually prevent employers from giving a ‘bad’ reference. As explained by UK employment advice service ACAS, references must simply “be a fair reflection and accurate”. There is no legal obligation to give a reference.

Is it illegal to give a bad reference in Ireland?

If they give you a reference, it must be true, fair, accurate and not misleading. If your employer gives a reference which you consider unfair or inaccurate, you may be able to sue them for negligence. If you consider the reference defamatory, you may sue the employer under the Defamation Act 2009.

What happens if I get a bad reference?

You might be able to take an employer to a county court if their reference was misleading or inaccurate and led to you ‘suffering a loss’. For example, if your job offer was withdrawn as a result of the reference.

Can I refuse to give a reference?

Generally speaking, an employer is not obliged to give a reference, though if you don’t want to give references at all it is safest to have a policy to say so. If you give references for some people but not for others, that could lead to Employment Tribunal claims if your reasons are discriminatory.

Why is it illegal to give a bad reference?

References just have to be accurate and truthful. So if you were disciplined at your last job, then they could include that on your reference. However, many employers are scared to give bad references because anything considered to be not 100% accurate could be grounds for legal action.

Can you refuse a reference?

You Have the Right to Decline a Reference Request There is never an obligation to give someone a reference. You can politely and diplomatically decline the request without offending the person who asked you.

Can you go to jail for lying on resume?

Lying on your resume can land you in jail, get you fired, or leave you without legal recourse against an employer.