KSS eKourier July 2022

FEATURE

WHISTLEBLOWERS, COURAGE UNDER FIRE

What is Whistleblowing? “Calling attention to a wrongdoing that is occurring in the business”, according to Google.

O ver recent times I’ve started to get worried about how and when whistleblowing is encouraged. My concern is that we are trying to turn society into Policemen. I don’t think that ends well for anyone. On the news, Government and law enforce- ment have been encouraging the public to speak out for any breach of Covid rules. I’m not sure society knows where to draw the line at such requests. In some jurisdictions like the United States, whistleblowing is legislated and companies need to provide a framework that allows for employees to call out wrongdoing in a safe and confidential manner. Despite my recent worries whistle- blowing is incredibly valuable to a business. It minimises risk and harm to

the business and its people. When you have a Team who possess the courage and have the trust in the business to speak up, it creates an environment with less controls and more freedom to go about their daily work. Over the years and even recently Team Members have stepped up and called out behaviours contrary to who we are and what we do

We are a geographically spread workforce making supervision very difficult and it is not our preferred method of operating, instead preferring to place an enormous amount of trust in our people. Sadly, from time-to-time people have done the wrong thing. Regardless of having a formal Whistleblower Policy or regulations I am proud to say we definitely have a Team of people who care. Over the years and even recently Team Members have stepped up and called out behaviours contrary to who we are and what we do. This bravery will always be welcomed and celebrated in our business so that we can maintain and foster a workforce of people who care.

It demonstrates that the people in the business are ethical and care about what happens in the business. Every business owner’s dream!

Darren Marshall Chief Operating Officer

15 Kennards Kourier July 2022