Introduction
This policy explains what whistleblowing is, how to report concerns, and what happens next. It applies to all learners, tutors and staff at Cambridge Marketing College.
Whistleblowing is when you report something you believe is wrong or dangerous. It could be something that affects the safety, wellbeing, or fairness of others. This policy is here to protect you and to help the whole College stay safe, fair and legal.
We take all concerns seriously. Raising a concern is not about getting someone into trouble—it’s about protecting everyone and making Cambridge Marketing College a safe and fair place.
This policy aligns with:
- The Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (PIDA)
- The Equality Act 2010
- Safeguarding guidance for educational institutions
This policy is reviewed annually and the next full review date is February 2026. Approved by Kiran Kapur, CEO 4th February 2025
What Is Whistleblowing?
Whistleblowing is when you raise a concern about serious wrongdoing, such as:
- Unsafe behaviour: actions that could harm someone physically or mentally.
- Breaking the law: for example, stealing, discrimination, or fraud.
- Bullying or harassment: serious, repeated behaviour that makes someone feel unsafe or unwelcome.
- Damage to the environment: improper disposal of waste, pollution, etc.
- Unfair treatment: actions that breach the College’s equality, diversity and inclusion policies.
You do not need proof to raise a concern—just an honest belief that something is wrong.
Who Can Raise a Concern?
Any learner, member of staff or tutor at Cambridge Marketing College can report a concern under this policy. You will be protected, even if it turns out you were mistaken, as long as you were acting in good faith.
How to Raise a Concern
You can report a concern in the following ways:
- Speak to a trusted staff member: this could be your tutor or any other staff member you trust.
- Contact our Safe and Well Team on Telephone: 0737 589 2864 Email: safeandwell@marketingcollege.com
- Contact the CEO Kiran Kapur 01954 234 947
When reporting, try to include:
- What happened.
- When it happened.
- Who was involved.
- Any evidence or witnesses (if you have them)
You may report anonymously or ask not to have your name disclosed
What Happens Next
- Acknowledgement: You will receive an acknowledgement with 2 working days if you report by email and immediately if you report by telephone.
- Initial Review: The concern will be reviewed by an appropriate person. Senior Staff are always informed for whistleblower concerns, but will not be informed of the name or personal details of the whistleblower without your express consent.
- Investigation: If the concern needs further investigation, this will be done confidentially and as quickly as possible. The College Governor will be informed of all concerns that need investigation but will not be informed of the name or personal details of the whistleblower without your express consent.
- Outcome: You will be informed about the result of the investigation, though some details may need to stay confidential for legal reasons.
Your Rights and Protection
- You will not be punished for raising a concern, as long as it is honest and in good faith.
- You can report concerns anonymously if you prefer.
- If you feel unsafe or that your concern has been ignored, you can contact an external organisation like:
- Protect https://protect-advice.org.uk/advice-line 0203 117 2520 or by webform.
- The Department of Education Disclosure in the Public Interest https://form.education.gov.uk/service/Contact_the_Department_for_Education (for education-related concerns)
Confidentiality
Your identity will be kept confidential wherever possible. Information may need to be shared in certain cases, but only with people directly involved in resolving the concern.