Issue - meetings

Wales Audit Officers presented a review of Whistleblowing and Fairness at Work (Grievance) arrangements.  Information was provided to the Audit Committee on how the review had been carried out, who had been interviewed and how evidence had been sought.  Proposals for improvement and the Management response were noted.  It was stated that steps are being taken towards the proposals and also confirmed that whilst informal feedback was already being sought from cases, these measures will now be strengthened.   It was reported that the Council has responded positively to the review. Questions and comments were invited, as follows:

A Member was not reassured by the report commenting that in improving arrangements for whistleblowing, no whistle-blowers were spoken to.  Results of a staff survey did not give confidence that staff would feel comfortable raising concerns.  It would be preferable that Wales Audit Office had spoken confidentially to staff with a grievance and whistle-blowers about their experience.  It was suggested that the matter should have been resolved much sooner, and that the recommendations should be implemented as soon as possible.  A further report on the strengthening of arrangements was welcomed.

It was responded that some whistle-blowers wish to remain anonymous and are not contactable.

Officers confirmed that it is standard practice to invite feedback from grievances and any recommendations are acted upon. 

A Member asked when the Standards Committee would be considering this matter.  The Head of Law/Monitoring Officer responded that the Standards Committee currently has purview over the conduct of Councillors and receives feedback from whistle-blowing cases.  Other councils more usually receive feedback at Audit Committees.  It was proposed that this point is addressed in the review of the Constitution and should also include an annual report to Senior Leadership Team.

The report was noted, comments were made and consideration given to the recommendations.