You can raise your concern at any time about an incident that happened in the past, is happening now or you believe will happen in the near future. Who is protected by law You’re protected if you’re a worker, eg you’re: • an employee, such as a teacher, support staff , caterer or cleaner • a trainee, such as a student teacher • an agency worker • a member of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Get independent advice if you’re not sure you’re protected, eg from Citizens’ Advice. A confidentiality clause or ‘gagging clause’ in a settlement agreement isn’t valid if you’re a whistleblower. Complaints that count as whistleblowing You’re protected by law if you report any of the following: • a criminal offence, eg fraud • someone’s health and safety is in danger • risk or actual damage to the environment • a miscarriage of justice • the company is breaking the law, eg doesn’t have the right insurance • you believe someone is covering up wrongdoing • A child or children are at risk of harm Complaints that don’t count as whistleblowing Personal grievances (e.g. bullying, harassment, discrimination) aren’t covered by whistleblowing law, unless your particular case is in the public interest. Report these under your employer’s grievance policy. How to raise a concern a) Through your Headteacher or Chair or Governors Normally you should first speak to your Headteacher. But if you feel that you can’t do this – for example if you believe that they are involved – then you should speak to your Chair of Governors. b) Through your trade union or a councillor You may find it helpful at this stage to contact your trade union representative, or you might prefer to contact a councillor, or someone who you trust to advocate on your behalf. c) Through the Whistleblowing route If you do not feel able to contact any of these people you should call the council’s Whistleblowing answerphone – ring 01484 225030 or email whistleblowing@kirklees.gov.uk
You can raise your concern at any time about an incident that happened in the past, is happening now or you believe will happen in the near future. Who is protected by law You’re protected if you’re a worker, eg you’re: • an employee, such as a teacher, support staff , caterer or cleaner • a trainee, such as a student teacher • an agency worker • a member of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Get independent advice if you’re not sure you’re protected, eg from Citizens’ Advice. A confidentiality clause or ‘gagging clause’ in a settlement agreement isn’t valid if you’re a whistleblower. Complaints that count as whistleblowing You’re protected by law if you report any of the following: • a criminal offence, eg fraud • someone’s health and safety is in danger • risk or actual damage to the environment • a miscarriage of justice • the company is breaking the law, eg doesn’t have the right insurance • you believe someone is covering up wrongdoing • A child or children are at risk of harm Complaints that don’t count as whistleblowing Personal grievances (e.g. bullying, harassment, discrimination) aren’t covered by whistleblowing law, unless your particular case is in the public interest. Report these under your employer’s grievance policy. How to raise a concern a) Through your Headteacher or Chair or Governors Normally you should first speak to your Headteacher. But if you feel that you can’t do this – for example if you believe that they are involved – then you should speak to your Chair of Governors. b) Through your trade union or a councillor You may find it helpful at this stage to contact your trade union representative, or you might prefer to contact a councillor, or someone who you trust to advocate on your behalf. c) Through the Whistleblowing route If you do not feel able to contact any of these people you should call the council’s Whistleblowing answerphone – ring 01484 225030 or email whistleblowing@kirklees.gov.uk