Public Interest Disclosure
An employee makes a Public Interest Disclosure (Disclosure) where they have some concern about a practice in their workplace or about an issue relating to their contract of employment.
Employees
As an employee it can be intimidating and stressful to decide whether to disclose sensitive information concerning an employer. An employee can speak with a member of our Employment Team, on a confidential basis, regarding their concerns and we can advise them whether they should report that information and the procedure for doing so.
Alternatively, if an employee makes a Disclosure and as a result of doing so they are victimised or dismissed, we can advise them on whether they may be entitled to bring a claim for unfair dismissal at the Employment Tribunal.
Employers
Employers should have up-to-date policies to deal with situations where an employee makes a Disclosure and should train members of staff in dealing with Disclosures.
What constitutes a Disclosure, and therefore affords the employee making that Disclosure protection, has expanded in recent years and employers should be aware of circumstances which could attract protection from the relevant legislation.
If you require assistance in responding to a Disclosure or Tribunal claim, or require the drafting of a comprehensive Whistleblowing policy, please do not hesitate to contact our Employment Team.