FAQs
You’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our application and interview process here. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please get in touch by email at: Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@sscl.gse.gov.uk
How do I apply for a vacancy?
Once you’ve found a role that’s right for you, you’ll be asked to complete an online application form. You might also be asked to submit a CV.
During the process, all our communication will be via email, so you’ll need a valid email address to apply.
If you’re invited to an interview, you’ll be able to book a date and timeslot via the application portal. Before the interview, we’ll email you to let you know how to prepare. Details of the interview will also be covered in role’s job advert.
For more guidance on how to apply, click here.
I’ve been offered an interview, but there are no slots on the system. What should I do?
Interview slots are uploaded to the system on a rolling basis, so there might be none available when you access the application centre.
Make sure to check back for more interview slots on a daily basis. We’ll notify you by email when new interview slots become available.
We also can’t guarantee you’ll receive your preferred choice of location for an interview (when face-to-face interviews resume), but all candidates will receive an interview slot.
I’m booked in to interview, but I’m now unable to attend. Can I arrange another date?
If you can no longer attend an interview, make sure to notify the recruitment team by email as soon as possible.
They’ll remove you from the slot and invite you to book another one. If there are no free slots, we’ll let you know when more interview slots are available.
In the meantime, please keep checking the system and rebook your interview as soon as you can.
Can I register my location preference when I apply?
Some of our roles are only available in certain locations, but some are advertised nationally. If your preferred location isn’t listed in the candidate pack, then the role isn’t offered there.
In some cases, where roles offer work in multiple locations, you might be asked to state a preference. If you’ve listed your location preference on your application, we’ll take this into account if you’re offered a role.
Please note that we can’t always guarantee that you’ll be offered work in your preferred location.
Can I claim travel expenses for attending my interview?
We can’t reimburse your travel costs unless we’ve cancelled your interview.
If we do cancel your interview, we’ll email you an expenses spreadsheet to complete and return to us with a copy of your receipts.
We’ll process this as soon as possible. If a payment doesn’t appear in your bank account within four weeks, please let us know and we’ll chase it up.
Can I speak to the vacancy holder?
For some roles, you’ll be able to speak to the vacancy holder.
If you’d like to do this, please contact the recruitment team and they’ll advise whether this is possible. If the vacancy holder is available, we’ll provide you with contact details as well as suitable dates and times.
Can I have flexible working hours?
We proudly support flexible working at HMCTS. If you want to use a flexible working arrangement, you’ll need to agree this with your line manager before you start.
Can I work from home?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, some of our staff have been able to work remotely in line with government guidelines and we continue to review this ongoing. Many of our roles are based in our courts and tribunals buildings and will require you to be on site. We will be able to provide more information on this for the role you apply for at the interview stage.
Can I submit a revised application for the same vacancy once I’ve submitted?
No, you can’t revise or resubmit your application once you’ve applied, so please make sure you’re happy with it before submitting.
Will I be required to travel to my interview?
We’re currently holding video interviews as much as possible to reduce the need to travel and attend interviews in person.
If you need to attend an interview in person for any reason, let the recruitment team know and we’ll advise you on the next steps. If you’re an internal candidate and you’re required to work at an HMCTS site, we’ll do our best to arrange a suitable interview within your normal working day.
Can I refuse to attend a video interview?
If you require any Reasonable Adjustments for a video interview, please don’t hesitate to contact the recruitment team, who will do everything they can to accommodate your request.
If you don’t have the technology to support a video interview, we’ll do our best to adapt the interview panel to accommodate you. However, we can’t always guarantee a suitable alternative. Please note that this doesn’t apply to Reasonable Adjustment requests.
What opportunities are available in other Government departments within the Civil Service?
The Civil Service comprises a huge number of departments, professions and specialist agencies.
For more information about working in other Government departments and what roles are available, visit Civil Service Careers and Civil Service Jobs.