If you believe that it would be in the public interest to report a wrongdoing or improper practice at your place of work, you have the right to make a protected disclosure, more commonly known as whistleblowing.
Whatever the nature of the problem is, and whether it happened in the past, is ongoing, or is a potential threat, our whistleblowing solicitors can guide you through the process.
We understand that the prospect of whistleblowing can be intimidating. At Clifton Ingram, we provide supportive, comprehensive guidance on your position at your convenience. We can step in to assist you at any stage of the whistleblowing process, including advising you on the steps and potential impact of your disclosure, and representing you during any subsequent claim you may bring for unfair treatment as a result of whistleblowing.
For immediate support, please contact our team or you can read our FAQs to learn more about whistleblowing.
Contact our whistleblowing solicitors in Farnham, Reading and Wokingham today
Our team work from offices in Farnham, Reading and Wokingham. We advise on whistleblowing for individuals all over Berkshire, as well as Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey and further afield.
Speak to one of our whistleblowing solicitors today by calling 0118 978 0099 or using the contact form at the bottom of the page. We will respond quickly.
Why trust Clifton Ingram for Whistleblowing matters?
- One of the leading Employment Law teams in the Thames Valley and M3 Corridor, through to Surrey and surrounding areas.
- Ranked in respected client guide The Legal 500 for Employment Law, recognising us as some of the best employment law solicitors in the region.
- Head of Employment Alison Gair and Partner Robert Cherry are members of the respected Employment Lawyers Association (ELA).
- Decades of experience providing employment law advice to employees, including in relation to whistleblowing.
- Experts in constructive negotiation and alternative dispute resolution, minimising the likelihood of tribunal proceedings.
- Ready to take immediate, firm action to protect your interests when needed
- A service tailored to your needs.
Our whistleblowing services
- Legal advice on whistleblowing disclosures
- Representation in claims brought for unfair treatment, including dismissal, because of whistleblowing
- Non-retaliation and detriment protection
- Confidential consultations
Legal advice on whistleblowing disclosures
When reporting wrongdoing at work, it is crucial that you understand your rights and are fully aware of any existing whistleblowing procedures in your contract, alongside other infrastructural expectations.
Our whistleblowing lawyers provide confidential, clear legal advice on whether your disclosure will be covered by whistleblowing law. We will assess your situation and advise on how to report concerns safely and without compromising your employment position.
Representation in claims brought for unfair treatment, including dismissal, because of whistleblowing
If you blew the whistle at work and are now facing retaliation or dismissal, you may have grounds to pursue a claim as a result of whistleblowing. Our experienced team will listen to your experience and can advise you on the viability of a claim, and, if suitable, represent you during employment tribunal proceedings.
Our team has a strong track record for handling whistleblowing unfair dismissal claims, supporting you to recover any financial losses.
Non-retaliation and detriment protection
Whistleblowers and employees making a disclosure are legally protected from being unfairly treated due to having raised their concerns. Demotion, sidelining, harassment, and the denial of opportunities in the aftermath of whistleblowing can all be challenged by our unfair dismissal solicitors for employees.
Our whistleblowing lawyers will review your circumstances and the history of your employment experience, contract terms, and nature of your disclosure. We will take swift action to uphold your rights and, where appropriate, pursue compensation to recognise the impact of the poor treatment you faced.
Confidential consultations
Whistleblowing can be daunting, with potential intimidation coming from your employers or the environment in which you are working. Additionally, if you are unsure of the legal implications you may be facing, it can be difficult to know how and when to disclose your concerns.
Your whistleblower protection lawyer will talk you through the process in a safe, neutral discussion at your convenience. Whether you’re contemplating making a report or are already facing repercussions, we can step in and provide effective, discrete advice.
Learn more about whistleblowing
What is whistleblowing in the workplace?
Whistleblowing is the act of an employee reporting misconduct, wrongdoing, or illegal activity performed by their employer or their practice. Typically, this will involve exposing actions of public interest and safety, such as environmental damages, health and safety neglect, or the cover-up of previous, ongoing or potential problems. The individual who speaks up or reports the issue is known as the whistleblower.
Am I protected if I blow the whistle at work?
It is very likely that you are protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (PIDA) if you blow the whistle in the UK, provided that your report meets certain criteria. If so, you will be protected from dismissal or other unfair treatments such as demotion or harassment. In order to qualify for protection, your disclosure must be:
- Made by a worker, meaning an employee, agency worker, trainee, or potentially self-employed individual
- Concern one of the issues listed in legislation, such as a criminal offence or health and safety risk, and;
- Made in the public interest rather than a personal grievance.
Who can I report wrongdoing to?
Depending on the circumstances, there are various people that you can report to, including:
- Your employer, who may have a whistleblowing policy already
- A prescribed person or body, such as The Financial Conduct Authority or The Health and Safety Executive or;
- The media, though this somewhat compromises the likelihood of you having protection under PIDA
What types of issues are covered by whistleblowing law?
Whistleblowing law covers disclosures made in the public interest. This does not cover personal employment issues such as unfair treatment or bullying, since they do not involve a wider risk or illegality. The kinds of issues that are covered by whistleblowing law include:
- Health and safety dangers to the individuals
- Criminal offences
- A miscarriage of justice
- Environmental damages
- Failure to comply with legal obligations
- Deliberate concealment of any of the above
Can I be dismissed for whistleblowing?
If your disclosure meets the criteria for legal protection under PIDA, then it is unlawful for you to be dismissed due to whistleblowing. Furthermore, if you whistleblow and find that you are subjected to any detrimental treatment, such as being transferred to a lesser role, being harassed, or denied promotions, then you may be able to bring a claim to an employment tribunal.
Our whistleblowing solicitors fees
The cost of Whistleblowing can make individuals uncertain as to whether it’s the right option for them.
That’s why at Clifton Ingram, we provide upfront and transparent cost estimates, offering you a chance to make your decisions fully informed. Our fee estimates will be accurate and reflect your final sum wherever possible.
Contact our whistleblowing solicitors in Farnham, Reading and Wokingham today
At Clifton Ingram, we will work hard to ensure that your rights to whistleblow and discuss your experiences are protected and that you do not face unjust backlash for speaking up. You will find our solicitors to be professional and supportive, able to step in and defend you at a moment’s notice.
Our team work from offices in Farnham, Reading and Wokingham. We advise on whistleblowing in the UK for individuals all over Berkshire, as well as Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey and further afield.
Speak to one of our whistleblowing solicitors today by calling 0118 978 0099 or using the contact form at the bottom of the page. We will respond quickly.
Alternatively, talk to someone now via our .