Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing allows for employees to report wrongdoings that have been identified in their place of work and that affect the public interest.

Initially employees should look to report the issue to their employer and try to get things resolved.  However if this does not work, or it’s not appropriate to do so, an employee can report the issue to relevant prescribed person or body who is then able to deal with the disclosure.

Once a person has ‘blown the whistle’ on a company they are entitled to protection, by law, from any repercussions through unfair treatment or dismissal from the employer.

An employee is protected under whistleblowing if they report a criminal offence, a breach of health and safety, damage or risk to the environment, a miscarriage of justice, where a company is breaking the law and where you believe that someone is wilfully covering up a wrongdoing.

Whistleblowing does not cover personal issues or grievances at work, for example claims of bullying or discrimination – these are covered by different areas of legislation.

Disclosures should only be made in good faith and where you reasonably believe that the information disclosed and any allegations contained therein are substantially true.