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Speaking up

Information for CII members about whistleblowing

Publication date:

16 May 2016

Last updated:

18 December 2023

Author(s):

Policy and Public Affairs, Duncan Minty

As part of our ethical guidance series, the CII has updated its guidance raising awareness of speaking up and whistleblowing.

We have update our three Speaking Up (whistleblowing) guidance documents following recent changes to the requirements for firms from regulators like the Financial Conduct Authority following the introduction of a new regime (the Senior Managers Regime - one for banks and a separate one for insurers plus a transition to this wider regime all regulated firms by 2018).

The document provides information on member obligations, options and 'speaking up' as part of good professional conduct. This new guidance sets out the legal and regulatory context and how it links to the CII's own Code of Ethics. Contains the following sections:

  • What is whistleblowing?
  • Why whistleblowing matters
  • How whistleblowing differs from complaining
  • What our Code of Ethics says about whistleblowing
  • The obligations our members are under when it comes to whistleblowing and reportable concerns 
  • An overview of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998
  • How to be better prepared 
  • What to weigh up when a problem does arise 
  • Deciding how to blow the whistle 
  • Frequently asked questions 
  • Sources of advice on whistleblowing
  • Key points

There are two other specific guidance documents which are linked via this page which address 1) how to manage a whistleblower within your own firm and 2) ensuring your firm has effective whistleblowing arrangements.

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Related resources

CII Code of Ethics - 2014 issue

Code of Ethics Explained: video with Duncan Minty (CII member-only)

How to manage a whistleblower: a 6 point plan for CII members

Ensuring your firm has effective whistleblowing arrangements

This document is believed to be accurate but is not intended as a basis of knowledge upon which advice can be given. Neither the author (personal or corporate), the CII group, local institute or Society, or any of the officers or employees of those organisations accept any responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of the data or opinions included in this material. Opinions expressed are those of the author or authors and not necessarily those of the CII group, local institutes, or Societies.