Application failing on references.

HGLTsuperstar

Please help before I give someone the wrong advice.
If you're told your application (this was a voluntary position but don't think that matters) "failed in the references" but was then told they could apply again, but when they asked what the problem was they were told the references could not be discussed.
As they pointed out, how can they reapply without feedback on where they went wrong first time.
If someone gives a bad reference, do you have any right to see it?
Obviously they need to find a new reference but easier said than done, especially when they don;t know which reference was the problem.

SomeBozo

You can apply under the FOA to see references.

I would suggest you get 2 new referees (easier said than done).

Bozo

HGLTsuperstar

The problem is they don't have other references, and the ones they do have don't seem to know why they "failed" (or so they say!)
What is FOA (sorry for being thick - only know of FOI Act)

Got2change

You DO have a right to see the references - but getting that through the now not new employer is not so easy and they will probably stall you. Equally, you could ask both of your referees if you feel comfortable doing that but again, they might not want to reveal what they said - esp. if it cost you the opportunity and they know it.
The Data Protection Act works both ways - whilst you have a perfect right to see anything that's written about you, the person writing it equally has a right to have what they have said (as it is an opinion and subjective by it's very nature) kept from you if it is believed that it may cause a problem for them. Perverse and unhelpful isn't it?
Don't know how much help this is; I had the same thing happen last year and it cost me (what I thought then might be) a dream job, there is a thread on here about it - I got loads and loads of useful advice.
I saw my reference (the referee - very reluctantly - provided it) and it was totally sh***y and untrue - I am still in the process of taking legal action (but at my own pace and as a low priority) against them, but, as much as I hold them responsible, the new "employers" really didn't have to take any notice of it or could have talked to me further instead of just rescinding a job offer - so I guess I pretty much dodged the bullet there (or that's what I tell myself anyway).
Hope you get something sorted.
x

Pound

SomeBozo wrote: »

You can apply under the FOA to see references.

I would suggest you get 2 new referees (easier said than done).

Bozo

The Freedom of Information Act is to get access to public information, not personal information. Personal data is even classed as an exemption under this act. It's the Data Protection Act that is needed.