About

Whistleblowing Policy

Introduction

Harwich Haven Authority (the Authority) is opposed to all forms of illegal activity and malpractice whether arising from within the Authority or from its suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors and customers.

If third parties have any concerns about suspected malpractice or illegal activity relating to the Authority, the Authority encourages them to raise the issue. The Board of the Authority will take your concerns seriously and encourages you to report any suspected malpractices or illegal activity as detailed in section 3.1 below.

This policy:

  • Provides the basis on which contractors and suppliers can raise any such concerns they may have and receive feedback on action taken
  • Allows contractors and suppliers to take matters further if they are dissatisfied with the Authority’s response
  • Applies to contractors working for the Authority
  • Applies to customers contracting with the Authority
  • Applies to suppliers and service providers under a contract with the Authority
  • Applies to members of the public and people working in partnership with the Authority e.g. volunteers.

When to use the policy

This policy covers any concerns about illegal activity and malpractice; including:

  • Conduct which is an offence or a breach of the law
  • Conduct you believe to be a significant breach of a contract with the Authority
  • Harassment
  • Victimisation
  • Racial, gender, sexual, disability or other discrimination
  • Health and safety risks, including risks to the public and/or other employees
  • Damage to the environment
  • Unauthorised use of public funds or other assets
  • Possible fraud or corruption
  • Neglect or abuse of clients
  • Other improper conduct

How to raise a concern

If you have a concern about suspected or potential malpractice, you should initially contact any of the officers listed below:

You should expect to receive a response within two weeks of submitting your complaint to the Authority.  If your complaint involves the CEO, CFO or Board then you may wish to contact an external party to raise your complaint, possible contact points are below.

 

External Avenues

Harwich Haven Authority hopes that stakeholders will be satisfied with any action taken. If they are not, and if they feel it is right to take the matter outside the Authority, the following are possible contact points:

  • Protect (previously Public Concern at Work) (tel: 020 3117 2520), a registered charity whose services are free and strictly confidential
  • ACAS
  • Local Citizens Advice Bureau
  • Relevant professional bodies or regulatory organisations
  • The police

 

Date of issue: 23 November 2023