NEERA MEDICAL CENTRE
Whistleblowing Policy and Procedure
1. Introduction
1.1 Policy Statement
Neera Medical Centre is committed to creating an open culture where concerns are raised and handled appropriately. This policy enables staff to raise concerns about fraud, misconduct, or malpractice and ensures their concerns will be treated seriously and without fear of reprisal.
The policy aligns with NHS England’s Freedom to Speak Up Policy and CQC Mythbuster 87: Speaking up and listening well.
1.2 Status
This document is non-contractual and may be revised or withdrawn. It adheres to the Equality
Act 2010 and aims to meet the diverse needs of our staff and patients.
1.3 Review Cycle
This policy will be reviewed annually or after significant events or updates to legislation.
2. Considerations
2.1 Requirements
All staff are encouraged to raise concerns without waiting for proof. Disclosures made in the public interest are protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. Malicious or dishonest disclosures are disciplinary offences.
2.2 Equality and Accessibility
Neera Medical Centre recognises that staff in lower-paid roles or from diverse cultural backgrounds may face barriers to speaking up. We commit to ensuring inclusive access to support, training, and guidance.
3. Speaking Up
3.1 About
Speaking up protects patient safety and supports worker wellbeing. We aim to foster a culture
where all staff feel safe to speak up, including during unsociable hours.
3.2 Freedom to Speak Up Guardian
Our FSUG ensures concerns are acted upon and feedback is provided. She undertakes training through the National Guardian’s Office.
3.3 What is a Qualifying Disclosure?
- Criminal offences
- Miscarriage of justice
- Health and safety risks
- Environmental damage
- Legal breaches or cover-ups
3.4 Who Can Speak Up
Any NHS worker can raise concerns via open, confidential, or anonymous channels. We encourage openness but respect individual choice.
4. Reporting a Concern
4.1 Initial Concerns
Discuss with your line manager, the FSUG, or the Practice Manager.
4.2 Stage 1: Notification
Raise the concern with the Practice Manager unless they are involved. Acknowledge receiptwithin two working days.
4.3 Stage 2: Resolution and Investigation
An impartial investigator will be appointed. Investigation length and updates will be agreed upon with the reporter.
4.4 Stage 3: Conclusion and Communicating the Outcome
A final report will be shared where possible, and changes implemented if needed. Lessons
will be shared with teams.
4.5 Reporting Outside the Organisation
- Care Quality Commission (CQC)
- NHS England
- NHS Counter Fraud
- ACAS
- Protect
- Trade Union
- Relevant regulatory body (e.g. GMC, NMC)
A full list is available at www.gov.uk.
5. Support for Those Who Speak Up
5.1 Speaking Up Support Scheme
- Health assessments
- Psychological support
- Career coaching
- Group session
Eligibility: Must have worked in the NHS in the last 3 years and experienced a significant
adverse impact
5.2 Additional Sources of Support
- Speak Up Direct
- NHS Wellbeing Support (text FRONTLINE to 85258)
- Practitioner Health
6. Reflection and Planning
Use the national self-reflection tool every 2 years to identify gaps and strengths in speaking up culture.
7. Visibility and Staff Engagement
This policy is displayed in staff areas, summarised in the practice leaflet, and available on the practice website. Staff are reminded about it in inductions and annual updates. A training log is maintained.
8. Summary
Whistleblowing is protected when it serves the public interest. Neera Medical Centre fosters a
just culture where staff concerns are respected and addressed.
If unsure, speak with your manager or our FSUG.
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