A ‘person of reputable authority’ can be defined as someone who works for a reputable organisation or has credibility through their work. For example, this could be a police officer, teacher, lecturer, civil servant, etc. This person can be relied on as a trusted source.
NHS Employers gives guidance on Counter Signatories;
All Counter Signatories must:
- work in (or be retired from) a recognised profession
- have known the applicant for at least two years, in professional or personal capacity, and be able to confirm the identity of the individual.
They should not:
- be closely related to the candidate by birth or marriage
- be involved with the candidate, for example, be in a relationship
- live at the same address as the candidate.
Documents requiring endorsement by a person of reputable authority must be signed, dated and include the following:
- contact details
- position held
- employer details
Further information can be found on the Gov.uk Website.