Fiducia TogetherReferences
Giving and taking references. There is no duty to give one, and there are duties if you do.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
A reference is a statement about a former employee's employment, conduct or performance.
Why it matters
There is generally no legal obligation to provide one, but a reference given must be true, accurate and fair, and a negligently inaccurate one can create liability to either party.
What it looks like in practice
Many employers give only factual references — dates and job title — to limit risk. That is lawful and common.\n\nA reference is personal data, so the subject may request it, subject to exemptions.
What to watch out for
Saying nothing where the omission implies something. A pointedly minimal reference for one leaver among fulsome ones for others is itself a message and can create liability.
Where to get proper advice
https://www.acas.org.uk/
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.