Do employers check references? *part time jobs*

Depends on the job. Generally they only do for skilled work or if there is an irregularity in what your saying. Doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing.

For my last job my references weren't checked (I asked them). For the job before that one was... it really depends. For a part time, presumably fairly unskilled, job I would imagine its less likely that they check.

But think about it:

Your references are bogus and they find out: no chance of getting the job.

Your references are tenuous (a Tesco manager who doesn't remember you from Adam) or potentially not that relevant (a lecturer, perhaps): maybe you get a generic reference. But its at least real.

If you want the job enough you'd find a direct contact or you'd at least be honest and put in the closest contact details you have.

/imo

Edit: Sorry, I came on a bit aggressive there. I didn't read your OP properly and took it that you weren't bothered by your references. Apologies.

If I were you I'd put down the best contact details you have or can get. If it is a fairly standard job I doubt they're going to be expecting fireworks from your references anyway. I would imagine that they would really be checking to make sure you're a functional human being.

References are a pain, my main reference the place I worked for 4 years in, she never picks up the phone because the shop closed down and she thinks they're all creditors