SCHEDULE 12 - WHISTLEBLOWING POLICY
1.
ABOUT THIS POLICY
1.1
We are committed to conducting our business with honesty and integrity, and we expect all staff to maintain high standards. However, all organisations face the risk of things going wrong from time to time, or of unknowingly harbouring illegal or unethical conduct. A culture of openness and accountability is essential in order to prevent such situations occurring and to address them when they do occur.
1.2
The aims of this policy are:
(a) To encourage staff to report suspected wrongdoing as soon as possible, in the knowledge that their concerns will be taken seriously and investigated as appropriate, and that their confidentiality will be respected.
(b) To provide staff with guidance as to how to raise those concerns.
(c) To reassure staff that they should be able to raise genuine concerns without fear of reprisals, even if they turn out to be mistaken.
1.3
This policy covers all employees, officers, consultants, contractors, casual workers and agency workers.
1.4
This policy does not form part of any employee's contract of employment and we may amend it at any time.
2.
PERSONNEL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE POLICY
2.1
The board has overall responsibility for this policy, and for reviewing the effectiveness of actions taken in response to concerns raised under this policy.
2.2
The Whistleblowing Officer has day-to-day operational responsibility for this policy, and must ensure that all managers and other staff who may deal with concerns or investigations under this policy receive regular and appropriate training.
2.3
The Whistleblowing Officer, in conjunction with the board, should review this policy from a legal and operational perspective at least once a year.
2.4
All staff are responsible for the success of this policy and should ensure that they use it to disclose any suspected danger or wrongdoing. Staff are invited to comment on this policy and suggest ways in which it might be improved. Comments, suggestions and queries should be addressed to the Whistleblowing Officer.
3.
WHAT IS WHISTLEBLOWING?
3.1
Whistleblowing is the disclosure of information which relates to suspected wrongdoing or dangers at work. This may include:
(a) criminal activity;
(b) failure to comply with any legal or professional obligation or regulatory requirements;
(c)
miscarriages of justice;
(d) danger to health and safety;
(e) damage to the environment;
(f)
bribery under our Anti-corruption and Bribery Policy;
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