By Jacob Hill, Founder of Offploy
As a frontline adviser or support worker, addressing the topic of criminal convictions can be a delicate but essential part of your role. Understanding someone’s background is crucial for providing appropriate support and ensuring they receive the services they need. Having a conviction myself, I have personal experience of both challenging and excellent requests of the most shameful time in my life from Frontline Advisors. Here are some key considerations and strategies for asking about criminal convictions with sensitivity and respect.
1. Establish Trust and Rapport:
Before delving into personal and potentially sensitive information, it is vital to establish trust and rapport with the individual. Start by introducing yourself and explaining your role. Use open and friendly body language and engage in light conversation to put the person at ease. Building a connection can help the individual feel more comfortable and willing to share their personal history.
2. Explain the Relevance:
People are more likely to disclose sensitive information if they understand why it is being asked. Clearly explain why knowing about any criminal convictions is relevant to the support you are offering. For example, you might say, “To provide the best support and to ensure we address any specific needs, it’s important for us to have a full understanding of your background, including any past convictions.”
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3. Ensure Confidentiality:
Reassure the individual that any information they share will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Explain your organisation’s privacy policies and the measures in place to protect their data. You could say, “Anything you tell us will be kept confidential and will only be used to help us support you better. We take your privacy very seriously.”
4. Use Empathetic and Non-Judgemental Language:
When asking about criminal convictions, it is essential to use language that is empathetic and free of judgment. Avoid making assumptions or using terms that might carry negative connotations. Frame your questions in a way that normalises the disclosure process. For instance, you might ask, “Have you ever had any involvement with the criminal justice system that we should be aware of to support you properly?”
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5. Be Direct Yet Sensitive:
While it is important to be direct, it is equally important to approach the subject with sensitivity. A straightforward but gentle question can encourage openness. You might say, “As part of our assessment, we need to ask if you have any past criminal convictions. This information helps us tailor our support to your needs.”
6. Allow Time and Space:
Give the individual time to respond and avoid rushing them. Some people may need a moment to gather their thoughts or may feel nervous about disclosing such information. Show patience and understanding and be prepared to offer reassurance if they express any concerns about sharing their history.
7. Provide Support and Next Steps:
If the individual discloses a criminal conviction, acknowledge their openness and offer your support. Explain how this information will be used to assist them and discuss any additional resources or services that might be available. For example, “Thank you for sharing that with me. Knowing this helps us to better understand your situation and connect you with the right support services.”
Asking about criminal convictions is a sensitive task that requires a balance of directness, empathy, and respect. By establishing trust, explaining the relevance, ensuring confidentiality, using non-judgemental language, and providing support, you can create a safe environment that encourages honest disclosure. This approach not only helps in delivering effective support but also fosters a trusting and supportive relationship with the individuals you serve.
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About the author:
Jacob Hill is an ex-prisoner and the founder of Offploy and organisation that has mentored over 4000 socially-excluded people. Using his lived experience he is on a mission to upskill frontline advisors to offer greater support to people who have been in his situation.
