Whistleblowing is growing at an alarming rate. This is being driven by high profile cases as well as campaigns against systemic issues like data privacy and sexual harassment.

There has also been an increase in complicating factors – including whistleblowers raising grievances and additional issues arising part way through an investigation.

Having an effective whistleblowing policy is now considered fundamental to good corporate governance, culture and risk management. The decisions you make early on can have a significant impact on the risks and how the investigation unfolds.

Some of the biggest risks include financial and reputational damage. There is no cap on whistleblowing claims and they can become part of an organisation’s permanent digital footprint.

In this episode, we look at:

• how to identify a whistleblowing claim;
• complicating factors, including how to defend your reputation; and
• how to manage an investigation, including who should be involved; reporting to the regulator; your obligations towards the complainant and others; and data protection.

We also look at some recent news stories, including:

• a ruling that ethical veganism can be protected under the Equality Act;
• new technical guidance from the EHRC on tackling sexual harassment at work; and
• the use of love contracts and #MeToo Bots.

Useful links

Parental bereavement leave and other April 2020 changes
The Whistleblowing Commission’s Code of Practice
TLT’s coronavirus hub

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