Public Interest Disclosure Act

Whistleblowing occurs when an employee or worker provides certain types of information, usually to the employer or a regulator, which has come to their attention through work. The whistleblower is usually not directly, personally affected by the danger or illegality, although they may be. Whistleblowing is therefore ‘making a disclosure in the public interest’ and occurs when a worker raises a concern about danger or illegality that affects others, for example members of the public. A clear policy and procedure for raising issues will help to reduce the risk of whistleblower discrimination and help prevent serious concerns being mishandled, whether by the employee or by the organisation. It is also important for workers to understand that there will be no adverse repercussions for raising cases with their employer.