Can I pass fast stream vetting?

[YourCoolLimeGuide]

I faced mental health challenges in my previous job, which affected my ability to pass required exams and perform to the adequate standard.

As a result, I was dismissed from the role, though I did not engage in any misconduct (e.g., theft, leaking data, violence, etc.). There are letters on file with HR and my line manager about my mental health issues, which are private.

I'm aware that the Fast Stream program conducts security checks, and they pay particular attention to mental health conditions that may affect the ability to safeguard national secrets.

Could the mental health issues that contributed to my dismissal disqualify me from the Fast Stream, even though I did not engage in any misconduct?

Have you now got the ability to perform to the requirements? Are you in a better place? If so you should be able to explain that's it's no longer a problem

Yes. No issue at all unless you are looking to work for one of the security services. Civil service is very supportive on mental health.

Yes, no issues. Even if you need DV for your role you should be fine. They care if you can be bribed or blackmailed so the key thing is to not keep any secrets and be open about EVERYTHING.

Over all, I wouldn't worry about it. Just be honest on the form tho, most people who fail vetting do so because they omit information. Think of it as "we're checking what we already know about you"! And they can get much more info than you think without your permission.

Also, issues flagged on security clearance results might discount you for one role but not another eg if you have deep financial issues you might not get a role with access to a budget but would get a role without.

But - just for reference, it's not true that all MH issues are fine for security clearance, if you need DV (developed vetting) depending on the MH condition you have there are some that would discount you (more serious psychiatric disorders). But the vast, vast majority of CS roles don't need any clearance above baseline and very few need DV.

All the best, you thinking mi5 / mi6 or gchq ? @YourCoolLimeGuide

Finally given up on the Big 4 then?

big 4 ?

I suspect it is a previous poster but can report rather than go into details.

nope, it's too much of a restriction on my travelling. also if you want to leave they won't let u

You'll be fine. Plenty of people in the CS with mental health issues and they are v supportive (IME)

Nope i was at a local government

Is teaching not working out now OP?

Every month like clock work.

so once a spook then we can not escape ?

no, I mean what do you tell your next job, i was a spy for the past 2 years but can't tell u what i learned/did cos it's top secret and if i told u i'd be arrested

Don’t be ridiculous.

yes there is that, but for me id just give generic duties or skills eg i was a communions staff member relaying different sets of information to be researched further by our in house analysts and some of this research was considered quite confidential by the company, overall the days could be a mix of high stress work or sometimes it was spent waiting and in the field conducting primary research, some of that research produced actionable plans that i pass on to my other colleagues to be able to develop the research further to see if it can produce some tangible results to help our group / company achieve results with different programs we had operational at any given timeframe

they dont call it the official secrets act or NDA for no reason, people seem to forget we have various intelligence agencies etc

@YourCoolLimeGuide
This is what id use as generic example:

Communications and Research Coordination Specialist
In my recent role as a Communications and Research Coordination Specialist, I was responsible for managing the flow of critical and often sensitive information between various teams within the organization. My primary function involved relaying key data sets to be further analyzed by our in-house research departments, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination of information crucial to ongoing projects. This role required a keen attention to detail, discretion, and the ability to prioritize under pressure.

I also played a pivotal role in conducting field-based research, often collecting primary data that shaped strategic decisions and operational planning. By identifying key insights, I facilitated the development of actionable strategies, which were then passed on to colleagues for further analysis and implementation. Many of these initiatives were designed to optimize program outcomes and deliver tangible results.

My experience involved working in both high-pressure environments requiring swift decision-making and periods of in-depth analysis and planning. Through effective communication, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and problem-solving, I contributed to the success of several high-profile programs. My ability to synthesize information and provide clear direction helped streamline processes and align project objectives with organizational goals.

Key Skills & Contributions:

• Coordinated the relay of sensitive data for strategic analysis and operational planning.

• Conducted field-based primary research, leading to the development of actionable insights.

• Worked closely with internal teams to ensure efficient flow of information and alignment on project goals.

• Excelled in high-pressure environments requiring quick, informed decision-making and collaboration.

• Contributed to the development and success of key organizational programs through research, communication, and problem-solving.

Yes, depending on how well your mental health is managed currently. You may find gaining security clearance a longer process and it can be denied if they consider you too high a risk.

@YourCoolLimeGuide re reading and if im reading right, what other orgs do we have that require this level of security etc? i know of porter down, then dtsl etc

As previously said, it doesn’t sound like it would be an issue. Not all fast stream roles require the same vetting, so it would depend on whether you’re looking for a placement that requires DV. Even for DV you’d probably be ok, the absolute top rule is be entirely honest in all vetting questions. The one thing that will fail your vetting immediately is lying or covering up.