Whilstleblowing Policy

At The Man In The Moon, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, integrity, and accountability. Our Whistleblowing Policy ensures that any member of our crew can report concerns about malpractice or wrongdoing within our organisation without fear of retaliation.

 

This policy covers issues such as:

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• Financial malpractice or fraud.

• Failure to comply with legal obligations.

• Risks to health, safety, or the environment.

• Criminal activity.

• Improper conduct or unethical behaviour.

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Scope of the Policy:

 

This policy should not be used to challenge business decisions or raise matters covered by other policies (e.g., discrimination or harassment). Concerns related to child protection will follow procedures outlined in our Safeguarding Policy, while employment-related grievances should be raised as per our Grievance Policy.

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Raising a Concern:

 

If a crew member identifies a concern, they are encouraged to document it in writing, providing details such as names, dates, and locations where applicable, along with reasons for their concern.

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• Initially, concerns should be brought to Paul Branch. If this is not feasible due to the nature of the issue,

• If resolution is not possible internally, the concern should be escalated to:

  • Ofsted (for issues concerning the safe and effective operation of our services).

  • Local Authority Designated Officer or Local Safeguarding Children Board (for child protection concerns not covered by our Safeguarding Policy).

  • Police (if criminal activity is suspected).

• Crew members unsure of how to proceed can seek advice from Protect (formerly PCAW), a whistleblowing charity.

 

Responding to a Concern:

 

Upon receipt of a concern, initial inquiries will be made, typically involving a meeting with the whistleblower to determine if an investigation is warranted and its appropriate scope. Concerns falling under other policies will be handled accordingly.

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• If further investigation is needed, it will be conducted promptly and comprehensively. A written response will aim to be provided within ten working days or a specified timeline if more complex.

• The response will detail the investigation process, findings, and contact information for escalating concerns if the crew member remains dissatisfied.

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Rights and Responsibilities:

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• All concerns will be treated confidentially, and every effort will be made to protect the whistleblower’s identity.

• Whistleblowers acting in good faith will not face repercussions. However, those found to have fabricated allegations maliciously may face disciplinary action.

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Contact Information: For further information or to report a concern, please contact:

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• West Sussex Safeguarding Children Partnership: 01403 229900

• Surrey Safeguarding Children Partnership: 0300 470 9100

• Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) for West Sussex: 0330 222 6450

• LADO for Surrey: 0300 123 1650

• Ofsted: 0300 123 1231

• Protect (formerly PCAW): 020 3117 2520

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Related Policies:

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• This policy should be read alongside our Grievance and Safeguarding policy.

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Review and Update:

 

• Reviewed: 25 June 2024

• Review Period: Every 24 months