Frequently asked questions
We understand that career applications can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming process. To make it easier for you, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide you with the information you need to navigate your employment journey with Innovate Trust.
This page aims to address the most common questions to make sure you have a clear understanding of our hiring process. If you would like to learn more about us as an organisation, you can read all about our history on our about us page.
Application
How do I apply?
Visit our careers page and select the position that suits you best.
How will I be notified of the outcome of my application?
All applications are responded to via email within 5 working days of the closing date.
Please check your junk mail or contact our recruitment team if you have not heard anything by this time.
I have no Support Worker experience, can I still apply?
Yes! We encourage everyone with a passion for care to apply.
I don't drive, can I still apply?
As long as the position does not ask for driving experience you can apply for any role.
I have points on my license, will this affect my application?
When we come across points when doing a driver check we will make note of this. If it is a serious offence such as driving under the influence then we will need to complete a risk assessment with yourself. Whether this affects your conditional offer of employment depends on the nature of the offence and the risk assessment.
Interview
How will I know if I have been shortlisted?
If you are successfully shortlisted, you will be sent a calendar invite with the link to the access the interview. Please accept the calendar invitation if you can attend.
How do you interview?
Currently interviews are via Zoom and/or Microsoft Teams. On the time and date booked for your interview you will need to click the link provided in the invite.
How long are your interviews?
Our interviews rarely go over one hour. Depending on the post you are applying for, the interview format may differ.
Some interviews require a presentation or task to be completed, others may have people we support on the panel and a Formal Panel. All information will be within the invitation email.
If I am unsuccessful, can I have feedback?
If you would like feedback on your application/interview, please get in touch with a member of the recruitment team or interview panel.
If you are applying internally, we also recommend you speak with your manager to see if there are ways they can support you to develop, should you wish to apply for other vacancies in the future.
Pre-employment checks
What are pre-employment checks?
It varies by role, but generally our vacancies require a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check (with Adults Barred list check), a right to work check, pre-employment health check, completion of starter forms (issued to you by post), and a minimum of two satisfactory references (references required will depend on your employment history).
All checks must be completed satisfactorily prior to a start date being offered.
How long does a DBS check take?
DBS checks are usually processed within 8 weeks, however some are returned faster than others and we cannot predict how long DBS checks will take. Please be aware that your DBS certificate is sent to you, we do not receive a copy.
You will need to provide the original certificate to us to authenticate, we will take a copy and return your original to you – please keep it safe, you will need it to register with Social Care Wales.
Will having a criminal record stop me from getting the job?
Decisions are made on an individual basis and we take into consideration the nature of the offences, how long ago they were, your circumstances at that time and whether you disclosed them from the outset (application and interview).
Some of our current employees have criminal records, and we recognise that sometimes people make bad decisions, or are in a bad situation, but that does not make them a bad person.
What is a Work Health Assessment?
A work health assessment (WHA) helps to identify health conditions and support in the early stages of your employment.
This means that appropriate adjustments can be put in place to support you in the workplace. It also ensures protection from any risks that your condition may pose in the context of your new employment at Innovate Trust.
Can I work or begin training without references?
No, we will need see all references before you can commence work or training.
References come back as quick as the referee sends them back. If time is getting on and we haven’t heard from them, a member of the Recruitment team will contact the company or individual to let them know we are still waiting and that it is holding up your application.
Who can I give as a character reference?
Character references can be provided by teachers, lecturers, group/club leaders, mentors, neighbours or friends. They cannot be family members.
What if I have never worked previously?
That is okay! We will ask you to think of some character referees you would like us to contact. You are not at a disadvantage if this is your first place of work!
Right to work
What is a Right to Work check?
A right to work check is a Home Office process to establish that each employee or casual worker has the right to work in the UK before you start your employment. All employers have to complete this as required in accordance with employment law.
What documents do I need to complete my Right to Work?
For a full list of documents and more information about your Right to Work visit the Governments website.
I am a British citizen but do not have ID. How can I prove my Right to Work?
For a small fee, you can apply for a copy of your birth certificate from your registry office. You can do this online, or in person.
However, if you have no documents and we cannot establish your right to work, we will unfortunately be unable to proceed with our offer of employment.
I am not a British citizen. I have the Right to Work, how can i evidence this?
This depends on your circumstances. If you have an application in progress with the Home Office, we are able to complete a check with the Employer Checking Service, which is valid for six months. However, if you have no documents and we cannot establish your right to work, we will unfortunately be unable to proceed with our offer of employment.
Training and Induction
What will happen as part of my induction?
When you come on board with us you will complete your training which takes 3 weeks. This will be longer if you work part time, to ensure all training courses are attended.
You will then be placed in a house and taught the job hands on.
When will training start?
This depends on when we have received satisfactory pre-employment checks back for yourself. This may be delayed if references do not come back quickly or if there is a hold up with the DBS.
Do you train internally?
Yes. Most training will be run by Innovate Trust. Some specific courses are provided externally.
Driving your own vehicle
Do I need business insurance to drive for work?
Yes if you are using your own vehicle, we will need to see a copy of your insurance policy to document to make sure you are eligible to drive.
What documents do I need to be permitted to drive for work?
We will need to see your driving licence and complete an online check for any points or offences using a share code (provided by you).
Can I claim expenses for using my own vehicle for work?
Yes, you can claim 45p per mile travelled for work-related purposes.
Do I need to notify you if I have gained additional points on my license?
Yes, you must let us know about any new points or offences as soon as possible after they happen. This means we can make safe decisions on whether you continue to drive for work.