Whistleblowing

Page updated: 11/08/2026

Most employees will never be faced with the difficult decision of speaking up or reporting a serious wrongdoing at work but if you do find yourself in this situation, you should be aware that the Council has procedures in place to protect you. This is, in fact a requirement of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.

What is Whistleblowing?

Whistleblowing is the term used to describe a disclosure by a worker, i.e. employees, casual worker, agency staff, contractors or volunteers, of malpractice as well as illegal acts or omission at work.

What is the Council’s attitude to malpractice in the workplace?

The Whistleblowing Policy’s aim is to cover concerns which fall outside the scope of other employment procedures and are in the public interest. For example, if you have a grievance relating to your employment, you should use the Grievance Procedure. If you are concerned about bullying or harassment in work you should use the Behavioural Standards Guidance.

You are encouraged to 'blow the whistle' if you believe malpractice has taken place in any of the following areas:

  • Criminal offences

  • Breach of legal obligation

  • Miscarriage of justice

  • Danger of the health and safety of an individual

  • Damage to the environment

  • Deliberate concealing of information about any of the above.

You should read the Policy in conjunction with the Officer’s Code of Conduct and any departmental procedures for investigating concerns.

Read our full Policy here.....  

Whistleblowing Policy - April 2026

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