Short answer: no, not usually. In the UK, references are rarely expected on a CV, and the classic line — "references available on request" — is one of the easiest things to cut. Here's why, and the handful of situations where listing them actually makes sense.
Why references don't belong on most CVs
Employers already know you can provide references if asked. Stating it is not new information — it is a sentence that does no work. On a document where every line is competing for a recruiter's attention, that space is better spent on a bullet point that proves what you achieved in your last role. Cut the line, and use the room for something that helps you get shortlisted.
There is also a practical reason to leave referee details off entirely. References are checked late in the process, usually once an employer is seriously interested. Publishing a former manager's name, job title and contact details on a CV that might be uploaded to job boards or shared widely gives that person's information away before there is any real need to.
When employers actually ask for references
Referee checks typically happen after an interview — often once you are down to a shortlist or have a conditional offer. At that stage you will usually be asked to supply names and contact details on an application form or separately by email, not read them off your CV. Some employers also want references only once a firm offer is being made. Either way, your CV's job is to get you to that conversation, not to pre-empt it.
What makes a good referee
Choose people who can speak credibly and specifically about your work:
- A current or recent line manager, who can comment on your day-to-day performance
- Someone senior enough to be taken seriously, but who actually worked with you closely
- A referee who responds promptly — a great reference that arrives two weeks late can cost you an offer
- For early-career candidates with limited work history, a tutor, placement supervisor or volunteering coordinator can stand in
Avoid listing friends, family members or anyone without direct working knowledge of you — most employers will see straight through it, and it can undermine an otherwise strong application.
Always ask permission first
Never name someone as a referee without checking with them first. Tell them which roles you're applying for and what you'd like them to emphasise, and give them fair warning that a call or email may be coming. A referee who is caught off guard, or who has to think hard about who you even are, will not give the strong, prompt answer you need.
When references on a CV can make sense
There are a few genuine exceptions. Some academic CVs traditionally include named referees as standard practice in that field. Certain public-sector, NHS or government application processes ask for referee details as part of a structured form rather than a free-format CV, so you supply them because the process requires it, not because it strengthens your case. Outside of these specific contexts, treat references as something you prepare separately and hand over when asked — not something that belongs on the page you send with your application.
Common questions
Should I write 'references available on request' on my CV?
No. Employers already assume this, so the line adds nothing and wastes space that could go on your experience or skills. Leave it off and use the room for content that actually helps you get shortlisted.
When do employers ask for references?
Usually after an interview, once you are being seriously considered or have a conditional offer. At that point you will be asked to supply referee names and contact details separately from your CV.
Who should I choose as a referee?
A current or recent line manager who can speak to your day-to-day work is strongest. Always ask permission first, and choose someone who will actually pick up the phone or reply promptly when contacted.