Whistleblowing and Breaches of Good Research Practise

Written in collaboration with UKRIO the Whistleblowing and Breaches of Good Research Practice is a new guidance targeted at supporting whistleblowers in research settings.

The scope of whistleblowing does not fairly protect everyone that falls under it, and neglects some workers completely. Researchers face many barriers that currently prevent them from reporting concerns about research misconduct, including stigma, fear of reprisals, and reputational risk. To safeguard research integrity, whistleblowers should understand their legal protections and the support available to them when coming forward with concerns.

This new guidance sheds light on existing whistleblowing legislation in the context of the research environment and the actions researchers and research organisations can take to facilitate safe whistleblowing practices. Ultimately, it aims to help build a research culture that normalises early reporting and encourages safe whistleblowing.

Alongside UKRIO, Protect encourage researchers and research employers to read, engage with, and share this report. Through a stronger understanding of safe whistleblowing practices, we can foster a more open, accountable research culture in the UK.