Policies & procedures
Whistleblowing
Understand what whistleblowing is and the board's role in relation to whistleblowing procedures.
Guidance
30/01/2026
What is whistleblowing?
Whistleblowing is a process that allows employees to make a disclosure about suspected wrongdoing, risk or malpractice that affects others. Such disclosures are made where the individual believes they may be exposed to victimisation or other unfair treatment as a result of raising their concern directly through a procedure.
Examples of whistleblowing disclosures include:
- a criminal offence (such as fraud)
- a breach of a legal obligation
- a miscarriage of justice
- danger to the health or safety of any individual
- damage to the environment
- deliberate covering up of wrongdoing in the above categories
Member-only content
Want to read this?
Become a member
NGA members get exclusive access to hundreds of practical resources including guidance, checklists and planners.
We’re here to support you at every stage of your governance journey with expert advice, training, events, and much more.
Already a member?
Related content
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
Updated: 17/09/2025School & trust leadersExecutive leader performance management: guidance for governing boards
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Guidance
-
Training & development
Bespoke for your board(s)Policies & proceduresGetting complaints management and investigation right to avoid escalation and serial complaints
-
Training & development
03/06/20266-8pmZoomFinance & resourcesGoverning AI in Schools and Trusts: responsibilities, risks and opportunities - June 2026
-
E-learning
-
Training & development
-
Blog
Updated: 30/04/2026Latest updatesFrom the Commons to the classroom: what you need to know about the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act
-
Blog
Updated: 24/04/2026Latest updatesLearning Link has evolved: a simpler, smarter way to support your development
-
Blog
-
Webinar
-
News
-
Blog
-
News
Updated: 12/11/2025Latest updatesMinister for Early Education writes to governors and trustees about school attendance
-
Blog
Updated: 05/11/2025Pupils & learningA New Curriculum for Schools: Key Takeaways from the Francis Review
-
Blog
Updated: 02/10/2025Governing board evaluationMeet the Experts: Rosemary Lovatt on Driving Great Governance
-
Blog
-
Blog
-
Blog
Updated: 11/07/2025SafeguardingKeeping Children Safe in Education 2025: What governors and trustees need to know
-
News
Updated: 10/07/2025Latest updatesAnnual Governance Survey 2025: School Finances and SEND System at Breaking Point
-
News
-
Blog