Public Interest Disclosure (Whistleblowing)

Staff should be aware of the Public Interest Disclosure ('Whistleblowing') Policy and Procedures. This enables any concerns which are in the public interest to be reported to the whistleblowing hotline at Whistleblowing Hotline or 0118 378 6353.

Typical items may include:

• financial malpractice or impropriety or fraud;
• failures to comply with a legal obligation or with the Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations of the University;
• dangers to health and safety or the environment;
• criminal activity;
• academic malpractice

The University will treat all such disclosures in a confidential and sensitive manner. The identity of the individual making the allegation may be kept confidential so long as it does not hinder or frustrate any investigation. However, the investigation process may reveal the source of the information and the individual making the disclosure may need to provide a statement as part of the evidence required.

Only exceptionally will the University consider disclosures made anonymously.

It is understandable that whistleblowers are sometimes worried about possible repercussions. The University aims to encourage openness and will support staff who raise genuine concerns under this policy, even if they turn out to be mistaken. If it is concluded that a whistleblower has made false allegations maliciously or with a view to personal gain, the whistleblower will be subject to disciplinary action.

Additionally staff should also be aware of the University's Anti-Money Laundering Policy. The policy is designed to give confidence that all funds transacted through the University's accounts have been processed in accordance with statutory requirements and to minimise the risk of the University's funds being used for improper purposes.