Living with the fear of disclosure: exploring post-hire experiences of people with criminal records in England and Wales

Internationally, it is widely acknowledged that people with criminal records (PWCRs) face considerable stigma and discrimination when trying to enter the labour market. However, the prevailing narrative that the ‘problem’ of criminal records is over once employment is secured has resulted in a lack of research into the lived experiences of employed PWCRs. This means that considerably less is known about their post-hire experiences as they continue to navigate the ongoing prospect of disclosure in the workplace. Drawing on empirical research conducted in England and Wales, this paper highlights a juxtaposition between the static criminal record and the fluidity of life experience and identity. The consequences of this for employment will be explored, illustrating how ever-changing national policy and institutional practice creates an unstable working environment for PWCRs. The emotional labour of remaining hyper vigilant to potential disclosure and self-censoring in conversation will be explored, with a discussion of how legally concealing one's criminal record can feel like deceit. In doing so, the paper reframes the criminal record as a life-long issue experienced throughout careers, justifying further empirical work into how PWCRs experience employment. • England and Wales maintains a punitive criminal record regime. • The ‘problem’ of criminal records does not end after employment is secured. • Employment is imbued with uncertainty prompting post-hire stigma management. • People with historical and/or minor cautions and convictions are impacted. • This has consequences for job security, workplace integration, job satisfaction.