Whistle Blowing

All members of staff must acknowledge their individual responsibilities to bring matters of concern to the attention of the Playgroup Manager or in her absence the Playleader or her deputy. If this is not appropriate then the Chair of Committee can be contacted. This can be difficult but is particularly important as the welfare of the children is paramount. You may be the first person to notice that something is wrong and may not feel able to express your concern out of feelings of disloyalty to your work colleagues. These feelings, however natural, must never result in a child or young person continuing to be unnecessarily at risk. Please remember it is often the most vulnerable children who are targeted. These children need someone like you to safeguard their welfare. Never think 'what if I am wrong' - think 'what if I am right'.

Reasons for whistle blowing

To prevent the problem worsening or widening.

To protect or reduce risks to others.

To prevent you becoming implicated.

Each individual has a responsibility for raising concerns about unacceptable practice or behaviour.

What stops people from whistle blowing?

Fear of getting it wrong.

Fear of repercussions or damaging career.

Fear of not being believed.

How do you raise a concern?

You should voice your concerns, suspicions or uneasiness as soon as you feel you can.

The earlier a concern is expressed the easier and sooner it is possible for action to be taken.

Try to pinpoint what practice is concerning you and why.

Make sure you get a satisfactory response - don't let matters rest.

Put your concerns in writing.

Discuss your concerns with the Playgroup Manager, Playleader or Chair of Committee.

Policy reviewed Nov 2019 J Heap
Next review due Nov 2020

Policy reviewed Nov 2020 by J Heap
Next review due Nov 2021