Issue - meetings
Whistleblowing Update
Meeting: 29/06/2017 - Standards Advisory Committee (Item 4)
4 Whistleblowing Update PDF 104 KB
Minutes:
The Committee were informed that there were presently 72 concerns three of these were also active at the time that the policy was introduced. Not all of the concerns raised were within the scope of the policy, however those that were, were referred to the relevant department and where the complaint concerned other agencies, the complainant was proved with details necessary to make an onward referral.
The Committee discussed the report and noted the following:
In regard to the safeguarding matter, Members were informed that the matter had been addressed quickly and the Council had dealt with the matter in accordance with the circumstances of the investigation.
Since Whistleblowing is administered through a third party, any anonymous complainants are still able to receive guidance and information relating how much information is required to be disclosed in order to lodge the complaint. However, the complainant is not constrained to provide this information if they do not wish to do so.
Regarding the Council’s comparative performance in this matter, Members were informed that Tower Hamlets went beyond many other local authorities as it was open to external organisations for public interest matters. Additionally, whistleblowing was legally a matter for employees; but the Council’s policy extended this right beyond this narrower scope. The Acting Corporate Director suggested that the Committee may wish to hear from Grant Thornton on the matter of Whistleblowing.
RESOLVED
That the whistleblowing concern and investigation monitoring information contained in Appendix 1 to the report be noted.