Whistleblowing – 3 facts you might not know

What is whistleblowing? 

If you report wrongdoing, risk or malpractice in the workplace, this is called whistleblowing.

3 facts you might not know about whistleblowing

1. NDAs should never be used to silence whistleblowers. If you’ve signed an NDA you cannot be prevented from reporting wrongdoing in the public interest
2. Whistleblowers are protected by law from unfair dismissal and detriment
3. Whistleblowing concerns should be in the public interest and highlight risk to others as well as yourself – this is different to raising a personal grievance with your employer

Confusion over the above could mean people choose not to come forward to report wrongdoing in the workplace, despite the law being on the whistleblowers’ side. 

We know from recent events in the NHS that employees speak “of a climate of fear” around speaking up. 

Organisations have a responsibility to make whistleblowing safe and anonymous in order to protect their employees and prevent wrongdoing in the workplace. 

Crimestoppers has provided a safe, independent and anonymous reporting service to organisations for 35 years. 

Find out more here