Whistleblowing encourages and enables employees, contractors, members, partners, and the public to raise serious concerns within the Council rather than overlooking a problem or ‘blowing the whistle’ outside.
Someone who gives information in good faith about a colleague may fear consequences in that they may be bullied, be ostracised by colleagues, face disciplinary proceedings, or be sacked.
The Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA) offers protection to such persons who raise their concerns about illegal; or unsafe working practices. If that person then suffers victimisation, in certain circumstances they may be allowed to claim unlimited compensation.
The Council recognises that the decision to report a concern can be a difficult one to make, not least because of the fear of reprisal from those responsible for the malpractice. If what you are saying is true, you should have nothing to fear. The Council will not tolerate any harassment or victimisation and will take appropriate action to protect you when you raise a concern in good faith
If you are worried that something wrong or dangerous is happening at work, please don’t keep it to yourself. Unless you tell us about fraud, corruption, safety risks or pollution, the chances are we won’t find out until it’s too late
Examples of malpractice include
- Danger in workplace
- Fraud
- Bribes
- Breach of statutory codes or Council policy
- Failure to comply with professional standards
- Actions likely to cause physical harm
- Harm to the environment
- Abuse of position
- Unfair discrimination in council’s employment or services
- Abuse of clients
- Failure to take steps to report / rectify situation which is likely to give rise to significant avoidable cost or loss of income
How do you refer a suspicion?
- Refer to your line manager first
- If not resolved refer to a senior Manager.
- If still unresolved refer to an external organisation
This update is issued by the Council’s Fraud and Investigation Team. If you require any advice or guidance in relation to fraud and corruption, please see the Fraud Team webpage here http://stagingmolly.molevalley.gov.uk/sample-page/fraud-whistleblowing-bribery-and-money-laundering/ , or email us directly at investigations@molevalley.gov.uk . Online fraud allegations can be made https://report-fraud.co.uk/molevalley/0
