Issue - meetings

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – LEGAL AND COMMUNITY/ MONITORING OFFICER.

The report deals with the review of the Council’s Whistleblowing Policy and any concerns raised.

RESOLVED: That the Committee

(1)    Considered and noted the Annual Report, together with the actions proposed post benchmarking.

(2)    Approved the Whistleblowing Policy, Appendix 1, in relation to anonymous allegations, as amended, as follows:

Page 30 of agenda item:

“Concerns expressed anonymously are much less powerful but will be considered at the discretion of the Monitoring Officer.”

“In exercising this discretion the factors to be taken into account would include:

·         the seriousness of the issues raised;

·         the credibility of the concern;

·         the likelihood of confirming the allegation from other sources and;

·         the reasoning behind wanting to remain anonymous.

Please remember that if you do not tell us who you are (and are therefore raising a concern anonymously) it will may be difficult for us to look into the matter…” 

(3)    Requested that the Whistleblowing Policy be included within the Code of Conduct training, which was mandatory for Members to complete.

REASONS FOR DECSION:

(1)  Good practice indicates that the Whistleblowing Policy should be reviewed annually. It affords the opportunity to comment on and improve arrangements at the Council.

(2)  To ensure Members are aware of the Whistleblowing Policy and their role within the Policy.

(3)  To use wording that encourages Council employees to use the Whistleblowing Policy as often as required.