Overview

This line manager briefing looks at the law and best practice on whistleblowing, and includes information on:

1. What is whistleblowing and who is protected?
   • dismissal
   • detriment
2. Protected disclosures
   • the types of misconduct that might justify whistleblowing
3. The routes of disclosure that are protected
   • disclosures to a 'prescribed person'
   • disclosures elsewhere
   • disclosures in exceptionally serious cases
4. Remedies for workers penalised for whistleblowing
5. Whistleblowing policy and procedure
   • devising a policy and procedure
   • the difference between a grievance and a protected disclosure
   • the point of contact
6. Handling disclosures
7. Test yourself

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1. What is whistleblowing and who is protected?

'Whistleblowing' is the colloquial term used to describe a disclosure made to someone in authority alleging corruption, malpractice or wrongdoing on the part of another person.