Overview
Workers who report wrongdoing in the public interest are protected from dismissal and detriment by law, but both employees and employers often lack a clear understanding of what that protection involves. This course explains what a protected disclosure is, what makes a disclosure qualify under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, and how organisations should respond to protect individuals and avoid costly tribunal claims. It also covers the practical difference between a protected disclosure and a personal grievance, and how to build a culture where people feel safe to speak up.
What you’ll learn
By the end of this course your team will be able to:
- Explain what a protected disclosure is and the meaning of public interest under PIDA
- Identify the qualifying conditions a disclosure must meet for legal protection
- Recognise the difference between a protected disclosure and a personal grievance
- Describe who can make a disclosure and to whom it can properly be made
- Apply correct procedures for receiving, managing and investigating a disclosure
- Demonstrate how to protect confidentiality and prevent detriment to the person who raised a concern
Who is this course for?
Managers, supervisors, HR and compliance teams, senior leaders, governors and trustees, and any employee who wants to understand their rights and protections when raising a concern at work.
Legal & compliance context
The Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, which amends the Employment Rights Act 1996, protects workers who make qualifying disclosures about wrongdoing from unfair dismissal and detriment. Employers must understand these provisions to manage disclosures lawfully and avoid tribunal liability.
Course content
- Introduction to protected disclosures and whistleblowing
- The legal framework: PIDA and the Employment Rights Act 1996
- Qualifying disclosures and qualifying conditions
- Confidentiality, anonymity and protection from detriment
- Handling and investigating a disclosure
- Building a speak-up culture
- Final assessment and CPD certificate
Format & certification
- CPD-accredited eLearning
- Self-paced, approximately 45 minutes
- Works on any device (desktop, tablet, mobile)
- Personalised certificate to download instantly on completion
Frequently asked questions
Is this course accredited?
Yes. It is CPD accredited and awards a personalised certificate on completion.
Is a protected disclosure the same as whistleblowing?
Yes. 'Whistleblowing' is the everyday term. 'Protected disclosure' is the legal term used in the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.
Who is this course for?
Anyone who may receive or make a disclosure at work, including managers, HR teams, compliance officers, senior leaders and employees who want to understand their rights.
How long does it take?
Around 45 minutes, completed at the learner's own pace on any device.