Reference request form template
This form can be sent standalone to a referee nominated by the new employee, or alongside a cover letter. It requests confirmation of dates of service and suitability for the role.
- 1 page / 208 words.
- Last updated 13/02/2023.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Reference request form
Reference request: [insert job title], [insert name of applicant]
The person named above has applied for a job with this company and has given your name as someone who we can contact for a reference.
I would be most grateful if you would confirm the employment details and give comment on the persons suitability based on the requirements of the job.
You're currently viewing a limited preview. For instant full access, purchase this item or a parent bundle.
This Reference request form template aims to offer you a versatile and customisable tool, serving as a solid foundation for your needs. Utilise it to ensure consistency, enhance accuracy, and save valuable time.
Adapt it to suit your unique requirements, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in your HR processes.
It is usually delivered to the Company / HR by the Employer / HR.
Flowchart
Flowchart
Check which resources should be implemeted before and/or after the Reference request form template, to understand the workflow.
Reference request letter
If you are recruiting a new employee and wish to request a reference from a previous employer, send this this model letter template to request confirmation of their employment.
Reference completed (where form is provided) letter
Our Reference Completed Letter Template streamlines the process of providing detailed and accurate employee references, saving time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Reference request form template is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
-
Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
-
Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
-
Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
-
What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
