The Blue t – Whistleblowing Policy

Introduction

At The Blue t, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and accountability. Our values are to be a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable employer and business partner of choice, where our product and people strive to perform using the highest ethical standards at all times.

We encourage all employees, consultants, contractors, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding unethical behaviour, illegal activities, or violations of company policies immediately.

This policy does not form part of any contract of employment, and the Company may amend it at any time

This Whistleblowing Policy aims to establish a framework for the reporting, investigation, and resolution of concerns that should be made in the public interest.

Scope

This policy covers the reporting of any wrongdoing or improper conduct that may cause harm to the company, its employees, customers, partners, or the general public. It includes, but is not limited to, the following areas:

  • Financial misconduct, fraud, or embezzlement.

  • Misappropriation of company assets or resources.

  • Violations of laws, regulations, or legal obligations.

  • Bribery or corruption.

  • Discrimination or harassment.

  • Unethical behaviours.

  • Health and safety hazards.

  • Environmental violations.

  • Retaliation against whistleblowers.

  • Deliberately concealing any of the above.

Reporting Procedure

Concerned individuals are encouraged to report their concerns promptly and in good faith. Reports should be made in writing and submitted to the designated reporting channels, such as the Managing Director of The Blue t via email (insert email address here) or phone (insert phone number here). Anonymous reports will also be accepted but are not always as helpful for resolving an issue.

Reports should include specific details of the wrongdoing, including dates, times, locations, persons involved, and any supporting evidence or witnesses if available, with contact details so we may reach out for further information required for the investigation.

The company will ensure that all reports are treated confidentially to the extent possible, and the identity of the whistleblower will be protected as far as permitted by law and practicality.

Investigation Process

  • All reports will be promptly and thoroughly considered by the Managing Director.

  • If an investigation is deemed necessary, it will be conducted by the appropriate authority within the company, such as the designated Whistleblowing Officer or an internal investigation team.

  • The investigation will be carried out fairly, impartially, and in adherence to applicable laws and regulations.

  • Whistleblowers will be kept informed of the progress and may receive general updates on the outcome of the investigation, while ensuring privacy, legal requirements, and confidentiality for others involved.

If an individual feels that their concern has not been adequately addressed, or the matter is too serious to be raised with the Managing Director, they should escalate the matter to the Founder, Tom Falck.

Protection Against Retaliation

The Blue t is committed to protecting whistleblowers from any form of retaliation or adverse action as a result of making a report in good faith. No member of staff must threaten or retaliate against an individual who has raised a concern. The Company will not tolerate any harassment or victimisation.

Any employee found to have engaged in retaliation against a whistleblower will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Whistleblowers who believe they have been subjected to retaliation should report the incident promptly, and the company will investigate and take appropriate action.

Confidentiality and Anonymity

The company understands the importance of confidentiality and anonymity for whistleblowers. While anonymous reports are accepted, providing contact information may facilitate the investigation process.

The company will protect the confidentiality of the whistleblower’s identity to the extent permitted by law and practicality. Only those involved in the investigation or professional advisors will have access to the whistleblower’s identity.

False or Malicious Reports

The Blue t takes reports of wrongdoing seriously, and false or malicious reports can have serious consequences.

To ensure the protection of all staff, those who raise concerns frivolously, maliciously, for personal gain, or make an allegation they do not reasonably believe to be true or in the public interest, will be liable for disciplinary action. Individuals found to have knowingly made false or malicious reports will face disciplinary action.

Non-Retaliation Policy

The company encourages open communication and respects the rights of employees to raise concerns. No employee will suffer adverse consequences or be penalised for raising a genuine concern in good faith, even if the concern is not substantiated.

Communication and Training

This policy will be communicated to all employees and stakeholders and made accessible via the Company’s website, through employee handbooks, training sessions, and the company’s intranet.

Regular training and awareness programmes will be conducted to educate employees about the policy and the importance of reporting concerns.

the Blue t (Bluet Productions Ltd) is a company registered England and Wales

(Company No. 08153241)