Whistleblowing policy

£30.00

Create a culture where concerns are raised early

A safe, structured way for staff and volunteers to report wrongdoing without fear. Fully updated for October 2026.

Updated for October 2026

  • Sexual harassment is now explicitly covered by whistleblowing protection (Employment Rights Act 2025, from April 2026)

  • The legal test explained accurately: concerns don't have to be raised "in good faith" to be protected

  • Reporting to "prescribed persons" such as the Charity Commission, HSE and ICO, and how that keeps legal protection

  • The new criminal offence of trying to stop someone reporting child sexual abuse

  • Updated external contacts, including the NSPCC Whistleblowing Advice Line and Report Fraud

Key Features

  • Clear reporting pathways, including when the concern involves the Pastor or Chair

  • Legal framework (the Public Interest Disclosure Act, PIDA)

  • Protection and confidentiality guidance

  • Scope of concerns covered

  • External reporting routes

  • Record-keeping and trustee oversight

Why It Matters

Early reporting stops serious issues becoming crises. In church settings, loyalty and close relationships often make people reluctant to speak up, so a clear and safe route matters even more.

Format

Editable Word document | Instant download

Create a culture where concerns are raised early

A safe, structured way for staff and volunteers to report wrongdoing without fear. Fully updated for October 2026.

Updated for October 2026

  • Sexual harassment is now explicitly covered by whistleblowing protection (Employment Rights Act 2025, from April 2026)

  • The legal test explained accurately: concerns don't have to be raised "in good faith" to be protected

  • Reporting to "prescribed persons" such as the Charity Commission, HSE and ICO, and how that keeps legal protection

  • The new criminal offence of trying to stop someone reporting child sexual abuse

  • Updated external contacts, including the NSPCC Whistleblowing Advice Line and Report Fraud

Key Features

  • Clear reporting pathways, including when the concern involves the Pastor or Chair

  • Legal framework (the Public Interest Disclosure Act, PIDA)

  • Protection and confidentiality guidance

  • Scope of concerns covered

  • External reporting routes

  • Record-keeping and trustee oversight

Why It Matters

Early reporting stops serious issues becoming crises. In church settings, loyalty and close relationships often make people reluctant to speak up, so a clear and safe route matters even more.

Format

Editable Word document | Instant download