Whistleblowing complaints can be complex, time and resource intensive, and emotional for all concerned. For some it can be traumatic to raise a whistleblowing concern in the first place.
It is in everyone’s interest for INWO investigations to reach a timely conclusion so that we minimise the risk of adding to existing trauma. Equally, INWO’s investigations must be thorough and impartial.
The following are our critical success factors and apply to organisations and whistleblowers equally.
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Clear, timely communication between the INWO and all parties concerned.
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Clarity from us about what evidence we need from you; and clarity from you about what you can provide and when. Don’t delay telling us if:
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you cannot provide the information requested by the deadline we set
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you are unclear on what is being asked for, or need some extra clarification on points of detail
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you think there is something important the INWO needs to see that has not been requested
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you think the INWO has misunderstood aspects of the complaint or local investigation
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Tell us about any concerns you have identified as soon as possible at the start of an investigation about anything we have asked, or issues that have emerged from your own investigation. These concerns may be about anything, but examples we have come across included maintaining confidentiality while still supporting staff, sensitive data and information handling, staff wellbeing and the capacity of the organisation to respond to us. Contacting us enables us to understand your challenges and find solutions that mean we can agree approaches that reduce the potential for delay.
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Ask questions if you are unclear or concerned at any stage during our process. This will help support constructive and ongoing dialogue throughout an investigation.
We are committed to supporting learning and improvement. If you would like to discuss any of the above, please get in touch at [email protected].