Westminster whistleblowing policies for CSA

Government Departments All government departments have whistleblowing policies in place. To support departments in ensuring their policies are effective, a model policy is provided by Civil Service Employee Policy, part of Civil Service HR. This policy has been renamed ‘Raising a Concern’ in line with a recommendation made by Professor Thorburn. The change of emphasis in the name moves the policy away from the ‘whistleblowing’ term which we have found can discourage individuals wishing to raise a concern. The policy specifically mentions danger to environments or to people, where it gives the example of abuse or mistreatment of children. Civil Service Employee Policy supported departments with their implementation of the model policy by running a cross-government ‘Speak-Up’ campaign in 2019. A further campaign is planned for 2021. Parliament The internal policies and procedures of Parliament are a matter for both Houses and the government respects the exclusive cognisance of each House to conduct its own internal affairs. However, the government is clear that all institutions should have appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure that they fulfil their responsibilities to safeguard children. Everyone must adhere to the legislation and guidance in place to safeguard children. The 2018 statutory guidance Working Together to Safeguard Children: A guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and promote the welfare of children sets out that everyone who comes into contact with children and families has a role to play. More broadly, the government has been working closely with both Houses to support meaningful culture change in Parliament. For example, the government worked closely with the House Authorities to establish the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme which provides support for improving the working culture in Parliament. Both Houses have also agreed to a Behaviour Code which sets out the standards expected of everyone working in Parliament. This government has made clear that there is no place for bullying, harassment, or sexual harassment in Parliament, and by working cross party we are helping to ensure that everyone working in Parliament is treated with dignity and respect.

All government departments have whistleblowing policies in place. To support departments in ensuring their policies are effective, a model policy is provided by Civil Service Employee Policy, part of Civil Service HR. This policy has been renamed ‘Raising a Concern’ in line with a recommendation made by Professor Thorburn.