Who it's for
- Employers and organisations requesting references
- Friends, colleagues and community leaders writing a character reference
- Applicants who want to help their referees
What's included
- About this pack — uses, referees' duties, honesty and UK GDPR
- Template A — Employment reference request form with 11 questions
- Template B — Character reference letter with example-led structure and an immigration-focused section
Key points covered
- Referees do not have to respond
- A deliberately misleading reference that causes loss can lead to a claim
- Share only accurate, relevant information and get the applicant's consent where possible
- Specific examples carry more weight than general praise
- State how long and in what capacity you have known the person
DocPilot templates are drafted from current legislation and official guidance (GOV.UK, legislation.gov.uk and the relevant regulators), checked against those sources and fully re-reviewed every six months. They are not legal advice. How we make our documents →
Read the guide
Related documents
Landlord Reference Request Form£9.99 · See what's included →Employee Offer Letter£11.99 · See what's included →Request Letter Templates£9.99 · See what's included →
Questions
Can I use Template B for court?
It is a general character reference. For court, check any specific requirements with the court or the person's representative.
Is this the landlord reference form?
No. Landlords should use the Landlord Reference Request Form, which covers rent, arrears and property condition.
Does a referee have to give a reference?
No, but if they do it must be honest and accurate.
Is it in a bundle?
No. It is sold separately.
Reference Request Templates
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