1. Introduction
This Whistleblowing Policy outlines the procedures and protections available to employees and stakeholders who wish to report concerns about wrongdoing, malpractice, or unethical behaviour within Custom House Managed Office Limited. This policy is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and a culture of integrity within the organization, while providing safeguards for individuals who come forward with genuine concerns.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, consultants, volunteers, and stakeholders associated with Custom House Managed Offices who wish to report concerns related to any aspect of the organization's operations, including financial improprieties, health and safety violations, harassment, discrimination, environmental issues, and other forms of misconduct.
3. Reporting Mechanisms
Employees and stakeholders are encouraged to report concerns through the following channels:
a. Internal Reporting: Individuals can report their concerns directly to their immediate supervisor, manager, or an appropriate designated officer within the organization. If the concern involves the immediate supervisor or manager, individuals should report to the next level of management.
b. Whistleblowing Hotline: Custom House Managed Offices maintains a confidential and anonymous whistleblowing hotline through an independent third-party provider. This allows individuals to report concerns without revealing their identity, while ensuring the organization is informed.
c. Written Communication: Individuals can submit a written report outlining their concerns and contact details to the designated whistleblowing officer.
4. Protection of Whistleblowers
a. Confidentiality: Custom House Managed Offices will treat all reports as confidential to the extent possible, and the identity of the whistleblower will be protected to the fullest extent of the law. Only individuals involved in the investigation will be informed of the whistleblower's identity.
b. Non-Retaliation: The organization strictly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Retaliation may include, but is not limited to, adverse employment actions, harassment, or other discriminatory treatment.
c. Legal Protections: Whistleblowers are protected under relevant Northern Ireland legislation, including the Public Interest Disclosure (Northern Ireland) Order 1998. Custom House Managed Offices is committed to complying with these legal protections and will not take any action against whistleblowers that would violate their rights.
5. Investigation Process
a. Designated Officer: A designated officer within Custom House Managed Offices will be responsible for overseeing the investigation process. This officer will be trained in handling whistleblower reports and maintaining confidentiality.
b. Thorough Investigation: All concerns will be thoroughly investigated promptly and impartially. Investigations may involve gathering relevant evidence, interviewing relevant parties, and consulting legal counsel if necessary.
c. Feedback to Whistleblower: The organization will provide feedback to the whistleblower about the investigation's progress and outcome, to the extent possible without compromising the investigation or any confidentiality commitments.
6. False Reporting
Reports made with malicious intent or knowingly false information will be treated as a serious offence and may result in disciplinary actions, including termination of employment or legal action if appropriate.
7. Training and Awareness
Custom House Managed Offices will conduct regular training and awareness programs to educate employees and stakeholders about this policy, their rights as whistleblowers, and the importance of reporting concerns to maintain a culture of transparency and integrity.
8. Review and Amendment
This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with relevant laws. Amendments may be made as necessary.
9. Contact Information
For any inquiries or concerns related to whistleblowing, please contact the designated officer at richard@customhousebelfast.com
This policy aims to ensure that concerns about wrongdoing are heard and addressed while safeguarding the rights of those who choose to report.