Unlocking overlooked talent: the business case for fair chance hiring

With skills shortages continuing across the UK, could employers be overlooking millions of people who have the skills and potential they need? In this episode of Talking Recruitment, REC Chief Executive Neil Carberry is joined by Neil Wood, Chief Operating Officer at the Fair Chance Business Alliance, and Simon Blockley, CEO UK & Europe at HeadFirst Global, to explore the case for fair chance hiring. There are currently 9.6 million working-age people in the UK with a criminal record, yet outdated recruitment practices, misconceptions and concerns about risk can prevent employers from accessing this significant talent pool. The discussion looks at why fair chance hiring isn't simply about social responsibility, but can be an important part of workforce strategy at a time when employers are struggling to find the skills they need. Neil Wood explains how the Fair Chance Business Alliance and its Unite 1K campaign are helping employers move beyond 'Ban the Box', with practical guidance and a framework for making informed, risk-based hiring decisions. Simon Blockley also explores the role recruiters can play as strategic advisers, helping clients rethink traditional hiring criteria and confidently access overlooked talent. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Why millions of skilled people with criminal records remain overlooked by employers. • The business case for widening talent pools as employers face skills shortages. • How the Fair Chance Business Alliance and Unite 1K are helping employers adopt fair chance hiring. • How businesses can balance managing risk with creating opportunity. • The role recruiters can play in helping clients access overlooked talent and make more informed hiring decisions. • Why inclusive recruitment can deliver benefits for individuals, businesses and wider society. Host: • Neil Carberry, Chief Executive, REC Guests: • Neil Wood, Chief Operating Officer, Fair Chance Business Alliance • Simon Blockley, CEO UK & Europe, HeadFirst Global