The COVID-19 pandemic and job loss: finding employment with a criminal record

The pandemic has been hard on everyone, you’re not alone. Having to face being unemployed and applying for jobs with a Canadian criminal record is even more difficult, with many in Canada facing having to start the search for new employment after years or decades at the same company in the same role.

If you’re worried about applying for a job with a criminal record, unfortunately your worries aren’t unfounded. The vast majority of employers now ask for information on the existence of a criminal record on applications, together with requiring a criminal record check for successful candidates; there are very few industries where a criminal record won’t impact a prospective recruit’s chances. Is that fair? No. But it’s the reality of the current job market, which has been made even more competitive by the pandemic.

The best first step to finding new employment is having your record pardoned. With a pardon you can legally answer “no” when asked about criminal record information on job applications, and criminal record checks will come back CLEAR. You do not have to reveal the existence of a pardoned criminal record at a job interview or to an employer. A pardon costs money, but it will pay for itself by way of the doors that will open and opportunities that will become available to you. It’s a fresh start!

We know that getting started is the hardest part, but once you make the decision to proceed with the pardon you won’t regret it. We’re happy to help and will make things as easy as possible for you, A-Z throughout the process. We offer a minimal required deposit, interest-free payment plans, and an affordable service when compared to our competitors. If you prefer to apply on your own, we’re happy to review your completed application prior to submission, help craft your personal statement of explanation (Measurable Benefit Letter) or answer any questions! Need further assistance, contact the Parole Board of Canada directly at: 1-800-874-2652.

Note: Please don’t try to cope on your own if you’re struggling. There are services available to assist with both job searches and mental health concerns.

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services/mental-health-get-help.html

https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/employment-centres

Still looking for help? Reach out and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction!

The ‘Suspend This’ Team