Whistleblowing training

In a healthy and ethical business environment, transparency is essential.

However, identifying and reporting irregularities is not always simple.

This is where whistleblowing training programmes come in – fundamental mechanisms for enabling employees to recognise improper behaviour and act in a safe and informed manner.

In this article, we’ll explore how proper training promotes an open organisational culture, strengthens whistleblowing channels and ensures legal compliance in line with European directives.

The Importance of Whistleblowing Training

Although many companies implement whistleblowing channels, their effectiveness depends largely on the level of knowledge and trust among employees.

Well-structured training programmes help:

• Raise awareness of irregular behaviour;

• Reduce fear of retaliation;

• Promote the correct use of reporting channels;

• Comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Directive (EU) 2019/1937.

Without training, even the best whistleblowing channel can become ineffective due to lack of buy-in.

What Should a Whistleblowing Training Programme Include?

1. A Clear Definition of Whistleblowing

Training should begin with a clear explanation of what constitutes whistleblowing – differentiating it from personal complaints or labour conflicts.

2. Types of Irregularities Covered

Employees need to know what kind of behaviour should be reported, such as:

• Corruption and bribery;

• Discrimination and harassment;

• Tax or financial fraud;

• Environmental or public health violations;

• Abuse of power or serious negligence.

3. Presentation of available channels

The training should teach you how to use whistleblowing channels correctly, whether they are internal (platforms, confidential emails, hotlines) or external (such as regulatory bodies).

4. Confidentiality and Whistleblower Protection

Making it clear that the whistleblower’s identity will be protected and that the company is legally prohibited from retaliating is essential to fostering trust.

5. Post-report process

Employees should understand what happens after they make a complaint – who analyses the case, expected timeframes, and how a response is given.

6. Practical simulations

Practical cases and role-playing exercises increase the ability to apply the knowledge acquired.

Strategies for Implementing an Effective Programme

1. Personalisation by Department

Generic training has less impact.

It’s important to adapt the content to the risks and responsibilities of each department – for example, accounting, HR or logistics.

2. Frequency and updating

Training must be continuous.

We recommend an annual plan with refresher and updating sessions in line with new regulations or internal changes.

3. Diversified formats

• Face-to-face workshops;

• E-learning with interactive tests;

• Short, informative videos;

• Monthly newsletters with best practices.

4. Leadership participation

The involvement of top management increases the credibility of the programme.

When leaders demonstrate a commitment to transparency, they inspire other employees.

Advantages of Investing in Whistleblowing Training

✅ Reinforcement of Organisational Culture

A culture of open communication and respect for ethics makes the company more solid and respected.

reduction of legal risks

By training employees to act correctly, the likelihood of undetected legal violations is reduced.

protecting Corporate Reputation

Timely internal whistleblowing prevents scandals from reaching the public eye, protecting the organisation’s image.

greater Talent Retention

Employees who feel they work in an ethical environment tend to stay with the company.

Relevant Legislation: What Companies Must Comply With

The transposition of European Directive 2019/1937 into Portuguese law obliges organisations with 50 or more employees to:

• Provide safe and accessible whistleblowing channels;

• Guarantee confidentiality and protection against retaliation;

• Promote information and training for workers.

Ignoring these obligations can result in fines and serious reputational damage.

Good Practices in Programme Communication

📣 Internal Communication

• Send institutional emails with the training plan;

• Post posters with instructions and useful contacts;

• Publicise short videos on internal platforms.

📌 Monitoring and Feedback

It’s essential to gather feedback after the trainings. Tools such as satisfaction surveys help to continuously improve the programme.

📈 Indicators of Success

• Participation rate in the sessions;

• Number of complaints registered;

• Average time taken to resolve cases;

• Qualitative assessment of employee confidence.

Digital Support Tools

Modern companies use digital solutions for training and reporting.

Platforms such as iBlow offer this:

• Online and face-to-face training modules;

• Encrypted reporting channels;

• Integration with compliance and GDPR policies;

Conclusion

Implementing an effective whistleblowing training programme is a strategic step for any organisation concerned with ethics, legality and transparency.

It’s not enough to have channels – it’s essential to ensure that everyone knows how, when and why to use them.

Empowering employees means investing in the company’s sustainability and in mutual trust.

Training is protection. Training is prevention. To report is to act.

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We hope you enjoyed this article.

 

Thank you!

Constantino Ferreira

iBlow.eu

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Published: 2025.05.14