Whistleblowing as a means to raise concerns, or a means to an end!

Abstract

This is a reflection on a whistleblowing policy in practice.  This will be linked to a specific issue from practice.  Consideration will be given to the impact of culture within an organisation of a staff member decision to use the whistleblowing policy.

While whistleblowing is an option where a staff member has serious concerns about quality of care, it is one that is only taken when all other avenues are exhausted.  It will explore some of the challenges that staff and students can encounter when making a decision to whistleblow.  It will explain how a whistleblowing policy can support professionals in practice.

It argues how those on the receiving end of care may have limited choice on the quality of that care, but as health professionals we do have choices and it is about what choices we make.