Government Sector Screening
Whether you are screening civil servants, defence contractors or consultants requiring access to secure sites or sensitive information, we provide the right BPSS checks to keep your organisation compliant and your contracts protected.
Our Government & Local Authorities checks may include:
- Identity verification of name, date of birth and address
- Verification of Right to Work in the UK
- Basic criminal record disclosure
- Education checks as necessary
- Independent verification of employment history gaps exceeding 31 days
- Employment/self-employment/unemployment checks for the past 3 years
About Government & Local Authorities screening
Government organisations handle sensitive information, secure facilities, national-security assets and critical public services. This makes personnel integrity, identity assurance, and trustworthiness essential from day one. The Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) is the UK government’s mandatory minimum screening requirement for anyone working in or on behalf of the government. Its purpose is to ensure individuals have the right to work, honesty, and the integrity required for work in secure government environments.
Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) screening is the precursor to all higher-level national security vetting and is essential for any individual requiring access to government assets, secure sites, or classified information. Our BPSS service supports government sector screening within their departments, defence contractors, and organisations working on secure projects. BPSS also serves as the foundation for higher-level clearances such as CTC, SC, and DV, making it the essential starting point for any individual requiring access to government systems, defence assets or classified materials.
Common roles for Government sector screening
- Government employees, including those in defence, intelligence and law enforcement
- Defence contractors working on sensitive projects or contracts
- Individuals involved in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy and transport
- Consultants and temporary staff who may need access to secure data or government facilities
Secure your workforce with a screening service for the Government sector
BPSS checks are a mandatory first step for anyone who may require higher levels of national security vetting. Our team can guide you through the process, answer any questions and help you choose the correct level of screening for your roles.
Why Government & Local Authorities screening is important
Most of these roles require a BPSS screening which is crucial because it is the frontline defence against insider risk, identity fraud, and the infiltration of government systems by individuals who should not have access. Without proper screening, organisations risk exposing government assets to theft, espionage, data breaches, or operational compromise, any of which could have national-security implications.
Lapses in vetting can lead to failed audits, contractual breaches, reputational harm, and even exclusion from government frameworks. By ensuring all personnel are verified, trustworthy, and compliant, organisations reduce internal threats, protect sensitive information, and uphold the integrity of government operations.
What our experts say about this service
“As part of the government sector screening the BPSS screening is the first line of defence in protecting government operations. When organisations rigorously vet their personnel, they reduce internal threats, maintain compliance, and uphold the integrity and trust that government work demands.”
Steve, Director
Start Your Government Sector Screening Today
Ready to secure your hiring process? Whether you need comprehensive criminal history searches, employment verification or tailored screening solutions, our expert team is here to help you make informed decisions with confidence. Fill out the form below s and one of our dedicated compliance specialists will reach out with a personalised solution.
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Our Government Sector Screening Process
Step 1
Submit candidate details & required documentation
Provide candidate details and initial documents (identity, Right to Work, address history). We outline the employment history window (typically 3 years; 5 years if client policy requires) and collect referee details. Your dedicated vetting officer confirms any extra documentation needed (e.g., proof of address, HMRC/payslips for gaps).
Step 2
Full Government sector services check completed by SVS
We complete identity, Right to Work verification, obtain a Basic DBS, verify the employment history and independently confirm any gaps over 31 days for a BPSS check. Where applicable, we record education to cover limited work history. You receive clear progress updates and immediate notification of any issues.
Step 3
Results, certificate & audit-ready evidence pack
On completion, you receive a certificate of screening, written confirmation of compliance and a full evidence pack (DBS confirmation, employment references, gap verification, identity/RTW proof). This provides an audit-ready record suitable for inspections, tenders and internal governance.
BPSS screening
Looking for BPPS security screening?
working in or alongside UK government departments? You may need BPSS screening, learn how we streamline compliance and screening.
What our clients say
Why choose SVS Security & Vetting Solutions?
Fast Turnaround
We understand the importance of keeping recruitment and operational timelines on track. Our efficient systems, dedicated Vetting Officers, and streamlined digital processes enable us to deliver fast, reliable screening results without compromising on accuracy or compliance.
Dedicated Vetting Officer
Your candidates’ dedicated Vetting Officer tracks each application closely, providing regular updates and flagging any issues early. You’re kept informed at every stage, ensuring a smooth, efficient, and predictable screening process.
Industry Expertise
With deep knowledge of regulated industry screening, we tailor our processes to meet the unique compliance standards of each sector, ensuring every check is completed efficiently, accurately, and in line with relevant regulations.
Government Sector Services FAQs
What checks do people in government roles require?
Most government roles require the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), which is the UK government’s mandatory minimum screening before any further security clearance can be applied for.
What is BPSS screening and why is it required?
The Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) is the UK government’s mandatory minimum background check for anyone working in or on behalf of government or its contracts.
Which roles typically require BPSS screening?
BPSS applies to a wide range of roles, including civil servants, defence personnel, law enforcement, consultants, contractors, IT specialists, and anyone needing access to government systems, secure facilities, or sensitive information.
What does the BPSS check include?
BPSS screening includes identity verification, Right to Work checks, a basic criminal record disclosure, a minimum of three-year employment history check, and verification of any gaps over 31 days. These checks help confirm integrity, eligibility, and suitability for government work.
Looking for Digital Identity Verification?
Digital Identity Verification fee from £6.50 per check (ex VAT)
Our fast, secure ID, address and Right to Work confirmation is completed directly by the candidate, reducing delays and protecting against fraudulent documentation.





















