Raising Concerns and Whistleblowing

1. Scope

This policy applies to all staff and learners registered on accredited NEBDN training courses at DNT.

2. Purpose

This policy provides a clear and transparent process for staff, learners, and their employers to raise concerns regarding the performance of any training staff or activities that may affect patient safety, professional conduct, or the integrity of the training program. It aims to create an environment where issues can be addressed promptly and fairly.

3. Raising Concerns about the Performace of a Colleague

It is natural for staff and learners to encounter concerns during their time at the training centre. While minor concerns may be resolved easily, serious issues that affect patient safety or professional conduct need to be addressed promptly.

Common Concerns Include:
  • Safety violations or poor practice that could harm patients or learners.
  • Breach of ethical guidelines or professional conduct.
  • Discriminatory behaviour or bias.

These concerns can feel daunting to raise, but it is essential to ensure that the learning and clinical environments remain safe, ethical, and professional. This policy encourages everyone to come forward, knowing that their concerns will be treated seriously and investigated thoroughly.

4. Your Safety & Protection

Anyone who raises a genuine concern will be supported and protected against retaliation. As long as you are acting in good faith, it does not matter if you are mistaken or if there is an innocent explanation. We do not expect you to prove your concern, only to raise it in good faith.

Protection from Retaliation:
  • No one will face disciplinary action or disadvantage for raising a genuine concern.
  • Malicious reporting will not be tolerated, and disciplinary action will be taken if the concern is knowingly false.

5. Anonymous Concerns

While we value open communication, we do consider anonymous concerns. However, raising an issue without providing your identity may make it more difficult for the centre to investigate the matter, provide feedback, or protect your position.

Our policy encourages openness for more effective resolution, although anonymous reports will still be considered.

6. How We Handle Concerns

Once a concern is raised, we will:

  1. Acknowledge Receipt: Confirm receipt within 2 working days.
  2. Investigate: We will assess the concern and begin an informal review or detailed investigation as necessary. This may include interviewing relevant staff or learners involved.
  3. Maintain Records: Every stage of the investigation will be documented.
  4. Feedback: As much feedback as possible will be provided, while maintaining confidentiality.

If your concern falls under a grievance or another procedure, we will inform you and direct you accordingly.

7. Raising Concerns

To raise a concern, please contact the Course Director, Erica, via email:

  • Email: erica@dentalnurse.training

If you are unsure about whether or not to raise a concern, or would like advice at any stage, you can contact Public Concern at Work, who offer free, independent, and confidential advice:

8. Confidentiality and Professional Integrity

We will ensure that all concerns raised are handled confidentially and that everyone involved in the process is treated fairly.

Our aim is to resolve any issues in a way that maintains the integrity of the training centre and respects the rights of all parties involved.