Protect’s report, ‘Why we need a legal duty on employers‘ has been published as part of our ongoing campaign, ‘Let’s Fix UK Whistleblowing Law’ to reform the Public Interest Disclosure Act.
Currently, there is no universal requirement for employers to have in place whistleblowing channels or to investigate serious public interest concerns raised by their staff.
The report highlights the key finding from YouGov research that UK workers – 76% – want to see all employers have whistleblowing standards in place and 80% agreed employers should face sanctions for breaching those standards.
‘Let’s Fix UK Whistleblowing Law’ recognises that alongside improving rights for workers there is the need to impose responsibilities on employers. A legal duty on all employers would mean every employer has in place whistleblowing channels, and investigates concerns. The legal duty would also protect whistleblowers from victimisation with sanctions or penalties if this duty is breached.
A panel debate with panelists from the Institute of Business Ethics, ACAS, the Wellcome Trust, the National Guardian’s Office, and the Work Foundation took place on 20 September.
