Raising concerns about wrongdoing, risk, malpractice or the misuse of public money should be part of the normal business of any healthy public sector organisation. Despite this, there have been various high-profile cases in recent years of workers and members of the public being ignored, silenced and even victimised after raising valid and significant concerns. The recent Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Inquiry highlighted the consequences of genuine concerns not being properly addressed.
There is a clear need for organisations to tackle head-on the real and perceived cultural barriers that prevent concerns from being actively encouraged, valued and listened to. Senior managers and board members have a crucial role to play in driving this change.
To support public sector leaders and workers, the Northern Ireland Audit Office has produced a new good practice guide which draws on recently published significant reports, such as the Francis Report, Freedom to Speak Up. The Guide is aimed at highlighting principles and practices to encourage openness and create an organisational culture which recognises the value of concerns being raised, encourages workers and others to speak out, and listens to the concerns being raised before taking appropriate action.
This interactive event, hosted by Nick Garbutt, will explore some of the main issues and themes addressed in the guide. It will also provide an opportunity for delegates to hear from senior public servants involved in challenging cultures and systems for raising concerns, at a local and national level.
Hear from speakers including: