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RESOLVED: That the Committee
 
(1)   
Considered and noted the Annual Report, together with the actions
proposed post benchmarking.

 
(2)   
Approved the Whistleblowing Policy, Appendix 1, in relation to
anonymous allegations, as amended, as follows:
 

Page 30 of agenda item:
 

“Concerns expressed anonymously are much less powerful
but will be considered at the discretion of the Monitoring
Officer.”

 
“In exercising this
discretion the factors to be taken into
account would include:
·        
the seriousness of the issues raised;
·        
the credibility of the concern;
·        
the likelihood of confirming the allegation from other sources
and;
·        
the reasoning behind wanting to remain anonymous.
 
Please remember that if
you do not tell us who you are (and are therefore raising a concern
anonymously) it will may be difficult for us to look into the matter…” 
 
(3)   
Requested that the Whistleblowing Policy be included within the
Code of Conduct training, which was mandatory for Members to
complete.
 

REASONS FOR DECSION:

 
(1) 
Good practice indicates that the Whistleblowing Policy should be
reviewed annually. It affords the opportunity to comment on and
improve arrangements at the Council.

 
(2) 
To ensure Members are aware of the Whistleblowing Policy and their
role within the Policy.
 
(3) 
To use wording that encourages Council employees to use the
Whistleblowing Policy as often as required.