Enhancing Workplace Transparency: How a Speak-Up Hotline Transformed Employee Trust and Reporting
Service: Speak Up Integrity Hotlines
Where we started
We often have organisations reach out to us when they need a confidential and anonymous avenue for employee, contractors and suppliers to report their concerns. Whilst we at Core Integrity do not want to replace internal reporting mechanisms, we can become another tool in the toolbelt to enhance company culture and transparency.
By engaging an independent Speak Up service issues of workplace bullying and harassment, psychosocial hazards and the other illegal or unethical behaviours can be captured and brought to the awareness of the organisation. We have recently had an organisation recognise the need for this service and we have been able to assist in rolling out a hotline for them.
The Challenge
- Low Reporting Rates: The organisation had low or no reporting numbers and whilst it may appear to be operating effectively, it is hard to know what you do not know. Employees were reluctant to report issues due to a fear of retaliation and/or a lack of trust in existing reporting mechanisms.
- Unaware Employees: Many employees were not aware of how to report issues or were unsure of the organisation’s policies on workplace bullying and harassment, code of conduct or whistleblowing.
- Need for Confidentiality: Ensuring the confidentiality and anonymity of reports was crucial to encourage more employees to come forward.
What we did
- Establish a Speak-Up Hotline: We provided the organisation with an independent speak-up hotline. Using a dedicated number, their employees knew that when they called the number, they were speaking to the right hotline to help them. We established 24/7 online reporting and 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday phone line for their people to call.
- Training and Awareness Campaign: The organisation engaged Core Integrity to conduct a comprehensive training program to educate employees about the hotline, the importance of reporting, and the protections in place for whistleblowers.
- Visual Campaigns: Posters were used around the offices, in both high traffic areas and discreet areas, to enable employees to read about the hotline and take note of the reporting channels. The visuals emphasised confidentiality and the importance of a safe workplace.
- Whistleblower Champions: The organisation appointed “Whistleblower Champions” in different departments to act as ambassadors for the hotline, providing support and answering questions.
The result
- Increased Reporting: Within the first six months, the number of reports increased. Employees felt more confident and secure in using the hotline. This did not mean that these issues just manifested in those six-months, these issues were always there and now the employees felt they could voice their concerns.
- Positive Workplace Culture: The awareness campaign and training helped create a more positive and inclusive workplace culture. Employees felt valued and heard.
- Addressing Issues Proactively: The organisation was able to address reported issues promptly and take appropriate action.
- Employee Trust: The transparent and confidential nature of the hotline helped build trust between employees and management.
Conclusion
The successful implementation of a speak-up hotline demonstrated the importance of providing employees with a confidential and effective reporting channel. The organisations commitment to fostering a safe and respectful workplace culture was reinforced, leading to a more positive and productive work environment.
We are always here to assist organisations with enhancing their programs so if you feel you want to reinvigorate your hotline, please reach out and we can work with you to build awareness with your people.
