Buddies Clubs & Services

Policy on Whistleblowing      
Buddies Clubs & Services aims to be free and open in its dealings within the organisation and with outsiders.  It believes in honest communication and transparency.  However, this policy offers guidance to anyone who feels the need to raise a Buddies Clubs issue with someone in confidence.
Procedure
1. This will apply in cases where you genuinely and in good faith believe that one of the following is occurring, has occurred or is likely to occur within Buddies Clubs & Services:
•	A criminal offence
•	Health and safety endangered
•	Failure to comply with legal obligations
•	Miscarriage of justice
•	Information relating to preceding topics being deliberately concealed

NOTE that you will not be protected from the consequences of making a disclosure if, by doing so, you commit a criminal offence.

2. If you wish to raise an issue which might fit into the above list you should contact 
The Service Manager who will treat the matter in confidence.

In such cases it is likely that further investigation will be necessary and you may be required to attend a disciplinary or investigative hearing as a witness.

Appropriate steps will be taken to ensure that you’re working environment and/or relationships are not prejudiced by the fact of your disclosure.

3. You should be aware that this policy will apply when a disclosure is in good faith and you reasonably believe the facts and allegations are substantially true.

If any disclosure is made in bad faith (e.g. in order to cause disruption within Buddies Clubs & Services) or contains information which you do not believe to be substantially true, or is made for personal advantage, then such a disclosure will constitute an offence to be dealt with by Buddies Clubs & Services Disciplinary Procedure. 
4. Buddies Clubs & Services hopes such disclosures will never be necessary, but recognises that it may face unforeseen situations.  Each case will be treated on its own facts.