Whistleblowing Policy

Purpose

PHB expects staff, coaches, volunteers and contractors to speak up when they see something wrong. This policy explains how to do that and the protection available to those who do.

What should be raised

• A safeguarding concern that is not being acted upon.
• Unsafe practice or a breach of health and safety requirements.
• Poor or abusive behaviour towards participants.
• Failure to follow PHB or partner policies and procedures.
• Dishonesty, fraud or misuse of funds.
• Any attempt to conceal any of the above.

How to raise a concern

Concerns should be raised as soon as possible with the PHB Founder / Head Coach. Where the concern involves that person, or the response is inadequate, it should be raised directly with the partner organisation's designated safeguarding lead or the relevant statutory authority. Named internal reporting contact: Multi agency Safeguarding Hub (M.A.S.H) 0300 126 7000.

Protection and confidentiality

• Concerns raised in good faith are taken seriously and will not lead to detriment for the person raising them.
• Identity is kept confidential as far as reasonably possible.
• Anonymous concerns are considered, although they can be harder to investigate.
• Deliberately false or malicious allegations may be treated as a disciplinary matter.

What happens next

• The concern is recorded factually and acknowledged.
• Immediate risk is addressed, including referral to safeguarding partners or emergency services where required.
• Appropriate enquiries are made and the outcome is communicated as far as confidentiality allows.
• Practice and procedures are reviewed where the concern identifies a weakness.

External routes

Concerns can also be raised externally, including with the local authority designated officer, the police, the NSPCC helpline, the Health and Safety Executive or the Information Commissioner's Office, depending on the nature of the concern. Protected disclosures are covered by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.

Review and contact

This document is reviewed at least annually, or sooner following an incident, a change in legislation, or a change in PHB's delivery. Date of last review: 7th Sept 2026. Date of next review:7th Sept 2027

Questions about this document should be directed to Pro Hoops Blueprint at info@prohoopsblueprint.com