A Guide to the Helpline
The helpline is managed by lawyers with a wealth of experience in public interest whistleblowing. We provide independent and confidential advice to people who are unsure whether or how to raise a whistleblowing concern that has arisen at work.
In confidence
Known as the whistleblowing charity, Public Concern at Work is also a legal advice centre designated by the Bar Council. Information that is communicated to us is subject to lawyer-client privilege and is also protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act. We do not disclose client confidential information without consent.
Public interest
The type of public interest or whistleblowing concerns we can advise on are fraud, abuse in care, public dangers, risks to consumers and significant regulatory breaches – essentially matters where the interests of others are at risk. We are not able to advise on private employment matters. Click here for links to other bodies that may be able to help you.
Practical
Our approach is that genuine concerns are best raised openly rather than anonymously. We also believe that if a whistleblowing concern is raised constructively, those in charge of any half decent organisation will deal with it effectively. While we can help you at any stage, the earlier we are approached, the more likely it is that we will be able to help you raise your concern swiftly and successfully.
Informed
It is important that you are open and honest with us as the advice we give is based on what you tell us. We will ask a number of questions to do with your concern. Please read them before you call to get an idea of what information we want from you. If you don't tell us the relevant facts, you should not rely on our advice.
Helpful
If your concern is within our remit, we will keep a record of the key points of the concern and the advice we give you. We will try and check that you have understood the advice and are clear whether there will be any follow-up and whether you or we will initiate it. If your call does not fall within our remit, we will if possible refer you on to an appropriate agency.
Not perfect
We conduct regular surveys of our helpline clients to monitor satisfaction with our service and the value of the advice given. While over 80% of callers say they recommend our service, some are unhappy they fall outside our remit or about the advice we have given. If you want to say thanks or find out about making a complaint or if you have suggestions on how we can improve our service please click here.
Key Documents
