Prevention of Retaliation and Discloser Protection
At Ashley Cleaning Services Limited, we are committed to maintaining a workplace where individuals feel safe raising concerns without fear of reprisal. This Prevention of Retaliation and Disclosure Protection Policy explains our dedication to protecting whistleblowers from any form of retaliation, victimisation, or harm. It outlines how we ensure confidentiality, support, and legal protection for those who make disclosures in good faith, in line with UK law. Our aim is to foster a culture of openness and integrity, where everyone is encouraged to speak up and contribute to a safe and ethical working environment.
1. Commitment to Protection
Ashley Cleaning Services Limited is committed to protecting the rights, welfare, and well-being of all individuals who make disclosures under our Whistleblowing Policy. We ensure that whistleblowers are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, and will be safeguarded from any form of retaliation, victimisation, or harm.
2. Confidentiality and Identity Protection
All whistleblowing disclosures will be treated with strict confidentiality. The identity of the whistleblower will be protected to the fullest extent possible, except where disclosure is legally required or necessary for investigation purposes. Access to information about the whistleblower and the details of their disclosures will be limited strictly to those involved in the investigation and any required legal or regulatory authorities.
Whistleblowers also have the option to report concerns anonymously through designated channels, although providing identity helps facilitate thorough investigations.
3. Non-Retaliation Policy
Ashley Cleaning Services Limited enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against retaliation or victimisation of whistleblowers making protected disclosures under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (PIDA) and Employment Rights Act 1996. Retaliation includes but is not limited to dismissal, disciplinary action, harassment, threats, or any other detrimental treatment by colleagues, managers, or third parties related to the organisation.
We commit to taking all reasonable steps to prevent retaliation and will promptly investigate any allegations of retaliation or adverse treatment with appropriate disciplinary measures when necessary.
4. Mental and Physical Health and Safety
The Company is dedicated to the mental and physical well-being of whistleblowers and will provide access to counselling, mental health support, and other assistance throughout and after the disclosure process. Where necessary, the Company will take all reasonable measures to ensure the physical safety of whistleblowers during investigations.
Regular well-being check-ins will be conducted to monitor and support whistleblowers’ ongoing health and safety needs.
5. Post-Investigation Protection
Protection and support for whistleblowers will continue after investigations conclude to ensure their long-term well-being. We will actively monitor the workplace environment to prevent any indirect retaliation or negative consequences.
Whistleblowers are encouraged to provide feedback on the process and report any concerns about their treatment at any time.
6. Legal Protections
Disclosures qualifying as “protected disclosures” under PIDA and the Employment Rights Act 1996 enjoy statutory protection against dismissal or detriment arising from whistleblowing. The Company will cooperate fully with law enforcement or regulatory bodies if investigations into disclosures or retaliation require their involvement, ensuring the whistleblower’s confidentiality and protection throughout.
7. Reporting and Support
Any whistleblower experiencing retaliation or adverse treatment should report it immediately to the Designated Whistleblowing Officer (DWO) or Human Resources. The Company will respond swiftly and confidentially to such reports.
8. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed at least annually or following any relevant legislative changes or significant incidents. Updates will be communicated to all employees and stakeholders accordingly.
Ashley Cleaning Services Limited 1987 - 2025 ©