How to raise concerns or whistleblow if abuse procedures aren’t follow

2.4 Explain how to raise concerns, including whistleblowing, when suspected abuse has been reported but the procedure does not appear to have been followed correctly

Course: NVQ Level 4 Diploma In Health And Social Care (RQF)

Unit 12: Understand safeguarding and protection in health and social care settings

LO2: Understand how to respond to suspected or alleged abuse

In case the suspected abuse is reported and the procedures may appear not to have been conducted properly, it is important to express concerns and make sure that the safety and well-being of people are not at risk. First, the issue should be brought up internally, talking to either a line manager or the safeguarding point of contact and explaining why the answer does not seem adequate or right. It is also important to document all the details, including the original report and any further action taken, so as to have evidence and understanding.

Whistleblowing becomes essential in cases where internal reporting fails to result in a proper action or in cases when the issue is related to management. Whistleblowing refers to the process of reporting the bad practices or inadequacies in an organisation, usually to third parties. It safeguards a victim of misconduct reporting against harassment by laws such as the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. The person must use the whistleblowing policy of the organisation to report, or where the organisation does not have one, the person must report the matter to outside authorities like the Local Safeguarding Adults or Children Board, regulators like the Care Quality Commission or professional bodies.

In the process, the privacy of the individuals should be upheld. Early identification and taking of issues with appropriate channels assists in protecting vulnerable people and also keeps organisations accountable. Unions, or advocacy groups, may also provide support to people who want to go through the process of whistleblowing. After all, it is the responsibility to make sure suspected abuse is carefully investigated and necessary actions are taken to safeguard the vulnerable parties.