The Act applies to all employees and workers, regardless of their age or length of service, and to union and non-union members. It includes people who are victimised for following internal grievance procedures, as well as those making wider, public disclosures.
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You must show that you 'reasonably believe' that the issue concerned is likely to endanger the health and safety of any individual worker, or group of workers.
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A victimised employee can complain within three months to an Employment Tribunal.
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You are much more likely to succeed in your claim if you use internal grievance procedures or make your disclosure to the official regulator – usually the HSE or your local authority. The HSE will be able to guide you as to the correct regulator for your workplace. The Act strongly discourages disclosure to the media, for example newspapers or the radio.
The charity Public Concern at Work runs a helpline for workers who need advice on whistleblowing: 0207 404 6609.
