SFA Clarify Position on Digital Signatures
Following on from our meeting with the SFA senior management,
we are delighted to see that the SFA have provided clearer guidance on the use of electronic evidence and digital signatures.
''It is recognised that the process by which the Provider records the Learner
and employer’s confirmation is a decision made by the Provider. It is unlikely
that a standard approach and process will meet the needs to each and every
Provider. Providers are able to hold evidence in an electronic format. This
includes holding data on electronic platforms and in scanned format, which
includes, but is not restricted to, digital signatures. The Agency accepts that
where a provider collects a learner’s signature that it may be captured either
in handwriting or electronically.
However it is the Provider’s responsibility to ensure that it retains a robust and
reliable form of evidence to support funding claims including evidence of
learner existence, eligibility, and activity. This evidence must be held in a
form which is accessible and auditable.''
Quoted from page 8 of the SFA Funding Rules 2012/13 Version 2