References
As part of our Safer Recruitment Policy we ask applicants to provide references, so that we can make sure volunteers are well matched with our reading programmes.
What references do I need?
As part of your DBS check, which Bookmark covers the costs for, you’ll be asked to provide references. This helps to ensure that we have the right people working with our partner schools and children.
If you’re applying to be a Reading Mentor, our volunteer programme for 16 – 17 year olds, your sixth form or college will be working with us as part of the application process, so you don’t need to provide references in the same way.
If you’re a student, retired or self-employed please watch the appropriate video to help you with your reference process.
If none of the above videos apply to you, please use our guide. If you need further advice about who to provide as a referee, please get in touch at applications@bookmarkreading.org.
Frequently asked questions
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One referee must be your current or most recent employer. If you have not been employed before then you can provide a referee from your most recent educational institution. If you have worked with children in the past as a volunteer or paid role, this must be your other referee.
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We understand if you haven't been working it can be difficult to obtain two suitable references. In these cases, you can obtain a reference from;
- A line manager or colleague from your post recent employment or volunteering roles.
- Any employment or volunteering with children (if applicable).
Where the above are not possible or not applicable, we can accept character references from professionals (see further FAQ on what professions this includes)
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If you’ve worked or volunteered with children, we will require a reference from your time doing so. We can obtain character references from professionals, who are not family members.
If you haven’t worked with children, and are unable to get another reference, in exceptional circumstances we can accept two references from the same organisation/employer. Where possible please provide a current and previous line manager.
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A current client or colleague from your business is acceptable, alongside a character reference e.g., your accountant.
If you have worked or volunteered with children, we would need a reference for your time doing so.
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Please note – this is not an exhaustive list.
Accountant or Financial Advisor
Barrister
Broker
Chairman/director of a limited company
Civil Servant
Councillor: local or county
Dentist
Doctor
Engineer (with professional qualifications)
Fire service official
Legal secretary
Local government officer
Member of His Majesty’s Armed Forces
Member of Parliament
Minister of a recognised religion
Nurse
Officer of the armed services (active or retired)
Paralegal
Person with honours (e.g., OBE, MBE etc)
Police Officer
Post Office official
Social worker
Solicitor
Teacher or lecturer
Trade union officer
For more support on providing references please visit our help page.
