What is a ‘protected’ spent conviction?

Legislative provisions allowing certain convictions and cautions to be ‘spent’ do not generally apply to veterinary surgeons (and other professionals). However, there is no obligation to declare ‘protected’ spent convictions and cautions. The rules defining what is protected are complex, applying varying time limits and listing situations where protection can never be applied, eg serious (listed offences); offences giving rise to a custodial sentence; and, multiple offences. The rules are attached in Annex A. If you are in any doubt about what you need to declare, please contact the helpline (Monday to Friday, 11am-4pm: 020 3821 1142) for advice.