Whistleblowing Policy
1. Policy Statement
Kidney Care for All CIC (KCA) is committed to maintaining an open, honest and accountable culture. We encourage all individuals connected with the organisation to report concerns about wrongdoing, risk, or malpractice without fear of retaliation.
This policy provides a framework for raising concerns that are in the public interest, and ensures that whistleblowers are protected and supported.
2. Purpose of the Policy
This policy aims to:
– Encourage early reporting of genuine concerns
– Enable concerns to be investigated and addressed promptly
– Protect individuals who report concerns from retaliation or disadvantage
– Promote a culture of openness and integrity
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
– All directors, staff, volunteers, contractors, and consultants
– Any individual connected to KCA who has concerns about wrongdoing
It covers concerns such as:
– Criminal offences or fraud
– Bribery or corruption
– Failure to comply with legal obligations
– Endangering the health and safety of others
– Environmental damage
– Covering up wrongdoing
4. Whistleblower Protection
Under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, a whistleblower is protected if:
– The concern is made in good faith and in the public interest
– The person reasonably believes the information is substantially true
– The concern is raised through appropriate channels
Whistleblowers will not suffer any detriment or retaliation as a result of raising a genuine concern, even if it is not upheld.
5. Raising a Concern
Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to:
– The Secretary of KCA
– If the concern relates to the Secretary, it should be reported to the Chair or another Director
Reports should include:
– The nature of the concern
– Background and relevant facts (with dates where possible)
– Names of people involved (if known)
– Any evidence or supporting documentation
6. Handling of Disclosures
Once a concern is raised:
– It will be acknowledged promptly
– An initial assessment will be carried out
– A formal investigation may be launched depending on the nature of the issue
– Confidentiality will be maintained as far as reasonably possible
– The whistleblower will be informed of the outcome, unless confidentiality restrictions apply
7. Anonymous Disclosures
Anonymous reports will be considered, but may be more difficult to investigate fully. Wherever possible, individuals are encouraged to provide contact details in confidence.
8. Malicious Allegations
If a concern is found to be knowingly false or made in bad faith, disciplinary action may be taken. This does not apply where concerns are raised in good faith but are not substantiated.
9. External Disclosures
If internal channels are not appropriate, concerns may be reported to a relevant external body, such as:
– The Charity Commission (if applicable)
– Companies House
– A legal advisor
– A prescribed regulator under the Public Interest Disclosure Act
10. Review and Oversight
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors. All staff and volunteers will be reminded of its availability and principles.