Questions to ask your mosque before hiring
# Questions to Ask Your Mosque Before Hiring
**TL;DR: Before hiring any services or staff through your mosque, ask about their credentials, insurance, references, and experience. Verify they’re DBS-checked if working with vulnerable people. Get everything in writing. Always check their qualifications match your specific needs.**
## Introduction
Hiring someone through your mosque can feel straightforward. You’ve got a trusted community connection. But trust alone isn’t enough protection for your organisation. Whether you’re hiring a caretaker, teacher, or contractor, asking the right questions keeps everyone safe. This guide covers what to ask before making that hire. We’ll help you find qualified, reliable people through your mosque network whilst protecting your group. Following these steps takes just a bit more time upfront. It saves potential problems later.
## Is the Person DBS-Checked?
**DBS stands for Disclosure and Barring Service. It’s a UK criminal records check. Anyone working with children or vulnerable adults must have current DBS clearance before starting.**
Never skip this step. DBS checks reveal whether someone has a history of abuse or criminal behaviour. The check costs around £24 to £40. Your mosque should request Enhanced DBS clearance for roles involving children, elderly people, or vulnerable groups.
Ask to see the actual DBS certificate. Check the date. Certificates don’t expire, but organisations typically refresh them every three years. Get written confirmation that they’ve had this check completed. Keep copies on file.
## Do They Have Relevant Qualifications?
**Check that their qualifications match the job requirements. Ask for copies of certificates, diplomas, or professional registrations. Verify these are current and authentic.**
Different roles need different skills. A caretaker needs health and safety training. A tutor needs relevant subject knowledge. An imam needs Islamic qualifications recognised by your community.
Request specific proof. Certificates should be recent. Ask when they completed their training. Find out if they need to renew any certifications. For specialist roles like counselling or teaching, check they’re registered with appropriate UK bodies.
## What References Can They Provide?
**Ask for at least two professional references from previous employers. Contact these references directly to ask about their performance, reliability, and suitability for the role.**
Don’t just accept names on a CV. Actually ring or email these people. Ask specific questions about their work ethic, punctuality, and how they handled problems. References from friends or family don’t count as professional ones.
Good questions include: Were they reliable? Did they complete tasks properly? How did they handle difficult situations? Would you employ them again? Write down their answers. Keep these records for at least three years.
## What Insurance or Bonding Do They Have?
**For contractors and tradespeople, confirm they’ve got appropriate insurance. Public liability insurance protects you if they damage property or injure someone whilst working.**
Different roles need different coverage. A plumber should have employer’s liability and public liability insurance. A cleaner should have public liability insurance at minimum. Ask to see their insurance certificate. Check it covers your specific work.
Some workers carry personal accident insurance too. This covers them if they get injured. Ask what their excess is (the amount you’d pay if something goes wrong). Get everything documented in writing before work begins.
## What’s the Written Agreement?
**Create a simple contract or employment letter. Include the job description, hours, pay, how long they’re employed, and what happens if either party wants to stop.**
Nothing should be verbal only. Written agreements protect both sides. Specify start and end dates clearly. Include payment terms and how you’ll handle disputes. Mention relevant policies they must follow. Include your safeguarding policy requirements.
They should sign and receive a copy. You keep a copy too. This takes perhaps 30 minutes to prepare. It prevents misunderstandings later.
## Conclusion
Hiring through your mosque community offers real advantages. You’re supporting your own network. But staying organised about hiring protections matters enormously. Ask these questions consistently. Keep proper records. Get everything written down. Your mosque runs better when everyone’s properly vetted and qualified. Start your search today and hire with confidence. Find a mosque near you by searching our free UK directory.
## FAQ
**Q: Who needs a DBS check?**
A: Anyone working with children, elderly people, or vulnerable adults needs DBS clearance. This includes teachers, mentors, carers, and youth workers.
**Q: How much do DBS checks cost?**
A: Standard DBS checks cost around £24. Enhanced DBS checks (for sensitive roles) cost approximately £40.
**Q: How long do DBS checks take?**
A: Standard checks usually take two to four weeks. Enhanced checks can take longer, sometimes up to eight weeks.
**Q: What if someone refuses to provide references?**
A: That’s a red flag. Professional candidates expect to provide references. Consider this a warning sign to look elsewhere.
**Q: Do I need a written contract for volunteers?**
A: Yes. Even volunteers benefit from clear written role descriptions and expectations. This protects both the volunteer and your mosque.