Whistleblowing policy

7.1     This policy encourages you to put your name to your allegation whenever possible. Where an individual chooses to report their concerns anonymously, such anonymity will be respected. However, the Council's ability to investigate anonymous complaints can be hampered by not being able to further explore issues or obtain evidence during the investigative process. Furthermore, if the identity of the person who has provided the information is not known, it becomes extremely difficult to either reassure or protect you. Concerns expressed anonymously are much less powerful and will only be considered at the discretion of the Council.

In exercising this discretion the factors taken into account include:

• the seriousness of the issues raised;
• the credibility of the concern; and
• the likelihood that the allegation can be confirmed from other attributable sources.

7.2     If the allegation suggests criminal activity and the case warrants police assistance, the identity of the person reporting the details may be important at a later date if criminal proceedings are to be pursued. Identification is therefore preferred and will assist with the investigation.