RC Diocese of Argyll and the Isles
SC002876
Whistleblower Policy
This policy is intended to encourage Trustees, clergy, staff (paid and volunteer), the faithful and others to report suspected or actual occurrence(s) of illegal, unethical or inappropriate events (behaviours or practices) without retribution.
1. The Whistleblower should promptly report the suspected or actual event to his/her Parish Priest.
2. If the Whistleblower would be uncomfortable or otherwise reluctant to report to his/her Parish Priest, then the Whistleblower could report the event to the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor, or one of the Trustees.
3. The Whistleblower can report the event with his/her identity or anonymously.
4. The Whistleblower shall receive no retaliation or retribution for a report that was provided in good faith – that was not made primarily with malice to damage another or the Diocese.
5. If a report is not made in good faith then the Parish Priest and/or, the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor and the Trustees should consider what, if any, further action is required.
6. Anyone who retaliates against the Whistleblower (who reported an event in good faith) may be subject to discipline under either Canon Law or Civil Law.
7. Crimes against person or property, such as assault, rape, dishonesty, etc., should immediately be reported to local law enforcement personnel.
8. Should Parish Priests, the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor, or Trustees receive a report, then they must promptly act to investigate and/or resolve the issue.
9. The Whistleblower shall receive a report within five days of the initial report, regarding the investigation, disposition or resolution of the issue.
10. If the investigation of a report, that was made in good faith and investigated by internal personnel, is not to the Whistleblower’s satisfaction, then he/she has the right to report the event to the appropriate legal or investigative agency.
11. The identity of the Whistleblower, if known, shall remain confidential to those persons directly involved in applying this policy, unless the issue requires investigation by law enforcement authorities.
To contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor, phone 07305 990 460
To contact the Bishop, phone 01631 562692
To contact the Chancellor, phone 01700 502047
To contact the Vicar General, phone 01851 702070
Rev. Roddy Johnston VG
Revised December 2017