“…The charity sector is one of the biggest sectors we hear from. We have around 400 to 500 calls from that sector every year." – Liz Gardiner
In this episode, we speak to Liz Gardiner, CEO of Protect, the UK's leading whistleblowing charity. Liz takes us through how whistleblowing can impact not only the organisation but the individual too. She also breaks down the process you might expect if you were to raise a concern and how Protect can help.
1. Whistleblowing - the big and the small
Liz talks us through the range of cases that can constitute as whistleblowing, from a suspicious looking invoice to huge safeguarding issues. There are different degrees to how these concerns are raised and dealt with and Protect can advise you on the right route to take. Interestingly, in the charity sector the big concerns are around working practices, which covers governance and bullying in the workplace.
2. The wider impact of Whistleblowing
The whistleblowing issues we hear in the news are the most extreme cases and can make a huge difference to not only the organisation but the whole sector they operate in, too. However, we tend to not hear about the impact this can have on the whistleblower who bravely put justice before their own needs. Liz explains how we should be treated by our employers and the legislation that's in place to protect us.
3. The steps you may take
From the first time you raise a Concern, Liz covers the different stages you may come across and what to expect along the way. Before you take any action, it's best to call Protect as they can give you advice on how to navigate these initial conversations in the best way possible.
If you need any advice or if you're looking to improve your whistleblowing arrangements in your organisation, Protect's team of advisors are experts in this niche area of employment law and are on hand to help. You can call them on 020 3117 2520 which is their free confidential advice line. They are open Mon, Tue, Thurs: 9:30am – 1pm, 2pm – 5:30pm; Wed, Fri: 9:30am – 1pm. Alternatively, you can email us or contact us via a web contact form at www.protect-advice.org.uk.
This episode of Charity Chat has been brought to you by our platinum sponsor Work for Good. Work for Good is a fundraising platform helping businesses raise funds for charities through their sales. The platform makes the legal agreement needed for businesses to sales fundraise quick and simple. Saving charities time and resource, and enabling them to raise more unrestricted income.
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We hope you enjoy this week’s episode.
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