Public Interest Disclosures (Whistleblowing)

What are Public Interest Disclosures?

Making a public interest disclosure involves raising of certain types of suspected illegal activity or activity in contravention of University policies and procedures which is not already being addressed appropriately.

The Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 protects people who raise such issues to ensure that they may make these disclosures in a way that seeks to address any concerns about possible negative treatment as a result of raising their concerns.

The University maintains a formal Whistleblowing Code (PDF, 284 KB), which explains how to make a public interest disclosure and how such disclosures will be considered and handled by the University.

Under the Code of Practice, arrangements are in place to protect those individuals who disclose matters of public interest, in good faith based on genuinely held concerns. Individuals will not be subjected to any victimization or other adverse treatment as a consequence of their disclosure. Any instances of victimisation or retaliation around matters raised under this Code will be considered a conduct issue to be addressed under the applicable University policy.

What sort of activity can I raise?

The rules are very specific and relate to the following activity which has taken place, is taking place or is likely to take place:

• Fraud or theft or other criminal activity
• Failure to comply with legal obligations, except in relation to an individual’s own employment, personal grievances or matters which take place away from the University
• Where the health and safety of any individual is in danger
• Miscarriages of justice
• Damage to the environment
• Activity to cover up any of the above

Who do I report such matters to?

You should report whistleblowing matters to the University Secretary, Room D12 Richmond Building,

• by telephone: +441274 234278,
• or email: UniversitySecretary@bradford.ac.uk.

Where the matters relate to the University Secretary, the concern should be raised with either the Chair of the Audit Committee or the Chair of Council. They can be contacted via Helen Hague, Senior Executive Services Support Manager in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, tel: +441274 233012, email: h.l.hague@bradford.ac.uk