Blowing the whistle is a challenging yet essential task, and it requires careful consideration. However, it is vital in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. A recent ‘Freedom to Speak’ report highlighted that nurses, particularly agency nurses, are vulnerable to whistleblowing due to insufficient induction regarding policies and procedures.
At Kind Haven Recruitment, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of service. To achieve this, we encourage our staff to utilise the whistleblowing policy to report any malpractice, illegal acts, or omissions. We make it clear that those reporting such activities will be able to do so without fear of intimidation or reprisal./p>
This policy is based on the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, which protects workers from unfair treatment or dismissal as a result of making a disclosure.
Whistleblowing refers to disclosing information in the public interest concerning suspicious, illegal, or dangerous activities where a service user or client is at risk, or where there is the possibility of imminent harm. This means that you should raise concerns if you suspect inappropriate or unlawful conduct, financial mismanagement, or poor practice and behaviour.
All staff have a duty to uphold and maintain the standards of care. If a staff member has any concerns regarding inappropriate behaviour, unlawful conduct, or poor practice, they are expected to raise their concern. It is important that you have reason to believe the information you are providing is substantially true; mere suspicion is not enough.
Physical or emotional abuse
Bullying.
Modern Slavery (See Policy 57 – Modern Day Slavery Policy)
Theft, fraud, or bribery
Health and safety issues or risks
Abuse of power, position, or authority
Failure to treat individuals with dignity
Financial mismanagement
Agency workers should consider the following avenues when seeking advice or raising a concern:
Your concern must be raised in the public interest – it should be something that is important to report for the public good.
In the first instance, you should raise the issue with the Client’s Line Manager.
If you feel uncomfortable speaking to the Client’s Line Manager or feel your concern isn’t being addressed, you should arrange a meeting with a senior manager.
Whistleblowing Helpline for the NHS and Social Care: 08000 724725, www.wbhelpline.org.uk
Modern Slavery Helpline (confidential and free): 08000 121 700
CIW (Care Inspectorate Wales): 03007900126
Care Quality Commission: 03000616161
NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council): 02076377181
Police (if there is a risk of imminent danger or harm)
If you decide to raise a concern, you must not breach the confidentiality of the individuals you support. Service user, patient, or children's information can only be disclosed if requested by the Police during an investigation.
If you experience bullying or harassment as a result of raising a concern, inform your manager and ask for protection under the Public Interest Disclosure Act.
In all cases, the identities of the parties involved will remain strictly confidential. Any individual making a complaint will be informed of this confidentiality.
All allegations raised or reported to Kind Haven Recruitment will be dealt with in accordance with the law, with all necessary steps taken to protect the confidentiality of the whistleblower.
Serious incidents or allegations must be reported directly to:
Daisy Brown (Director of Kind Haven Recruitment)
Kate Iworia (Director of Kind Haven Recruitment)