News story

Vetting explained

Find out about what the vetting process involves and the information you need to provide before you can hold security clearance.

• From: United Kingdom Security Vetting and Cabinet Office
• Published: 27 January 2021

This was published under the 2019 to 2022 Johnson Conservative government

New vetting explained guidance has been published by the Cabinet Office for anyone working in a role that requires security clearance.

To hold security clearance you must go through the vetting process, which is a series of background checks, before you are granted access to sensitive information, assets and equipment.

The process aims to identify, manage and mitigate any areas of risk in relation to the clearance you need. The vetting process is not a judgement of your background or lifestyle.

The new guidance includes:

• What is vetting?
• Who delivers vetting?
• What information will I be asked for?
• Why will I be asked for this information?

Published 27 January 2021