Government Launches Whistleblowing Laws Review: Protecting Workplace Whistleblowers

In a significant move towards bolstering workplace ethics and safety,  in March 2023, the UK government initiated a comprehensive review of its whistleblowing framework. This review aims to assess the effectiveness of current laws in empowering workers to report wrongdoing and safeguarding those who do so. The evidence-gathering phase of this review is set to conclude by the end of 2023.

Whistleblowing, which is a critical tool in ensuring safe working conditions, and in encouraging workers to report on wrongdoing/malpractice in the workplace has been protected by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (PIDA) and Employment Rights Act 1996. Workers who blow the whistle are entitled to protections, including immunity from detrimental actions or dismissal as a result of their disclosures which they raised in the public interest. They can seek redress through the Employment Tribunals if these protections are violated. Typically, to qualify for these protections, the worker must have made the disclosure to their employer, legal advisor, or a prescribed person.

Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake has said: “Whistleblowing is a vital tool in tackling economic crime and unsafe working conditions, and the UK was one of the first countries in the world to develop a whistleblowing framework. This review has been a priority for me since joining government, and it will take stock of whether the whistleblowing framework is operating effectively and protects those who call out wrongdoing in the workplace”.

The review will delve into key aspects of the whistleblowing framework, including how it has facilitated disclosures, the extent to which it has safeguarded workers, the availability and accessibility of whistleblowing information, and the broader impacts of the framework on employers and prescribed persons. Additionally, the review will identify best practices in responding to whistleblowers’ disclosures.

This review is said to demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring that workers can raise concerns without fear of reprisals, and in ensuring that businesses adhere to the highest ethical standards. As it progresses, the findings and potential changes will play a pivotal role in enhancing workplace transparency and accountability.

Our expert employment solicitors regularly advise both employees and employers on complex whistleblowing claims.  For further information, please contact our employment lawyers today for a confidential and no obligation discussion on (0)20 3950 5234 or email info@rllaw.co.uk .