Can any employer fill reference form as my referee has just retired?

Wep405

In my last job I left on bad terms. I'm in a temporary job at the moment, but last week I was offered a new permanent job at a store (that I had previously tried for 5 months ago, came second in the process and I'm now being offered it as the other person has left) and the store have used the referee details on the application form that I sent in 5 months ago. Since this time, my manager from my previous work has retired but the potentially new workplace have just told me that they've sent the reference form today to my retired manager's previous workplace address.

I'm worried that the current manager will open the letter and fill in the reference form (whom I believe would not give a good reference) as my other manager has retired. Would they be allowed to do this, or would HR fill the form, or is this improper practice as they would be doing it without my permission? I'm very worried, as I would absolutely love this job.

I have notified my previous manager of the situation who has told me to ask my previous workplace to redirect the letter to him, but I'm still worried that the new manager will take matters into his own hands.

ohreally

HR would normally pick this up.

Wep405

And HR would fill in the reference form?

ohreally

Normally.

This is a function of HR and policy will likely require reference requests are handled by them.

Wep405

Thanks. I'm quite worried as the HR staff are in a separate department and I never worked closely with them, and they would listen to the current manager. I'm thinking of calling HR tomorrow to explain,because if the new potential workplace would have told me that they were sticking with my old application form, I would have changed the contact details to my retired manager's home address.

ohreally

They may simply confirm your employment - dates, job title.

Did you leave of your own accord or were there circumstances?

Wep405

Complex situation - there were circumstances, but I've seen the majority of senior staff after leaving who have shaken my hand and are very kind and supportive everytime I see them, this is proven in the fact that I've asked one to be my reference and that he has asked for the reference to be redirected to him. It was just one senior member who made my life difficult and I'm worried that he won't redirect the form and will leave it with HR instead.

ohreally

Wep405 wrote: »

I've asked one to be my reference and that he has asked for the reference to be redirected to him

This would be a personal testament and may not satisfy HR at the prospective employer.

In future, if you need an exit strategy, this is the time to agree the reference content and who shall supply it.