Proceedings may follow council investigation

There have been 11 referrals during 2009/10, the most in any year since the policy was implemented, according to a review by the authority.

Of those, two were found on investigation to be unfounded, two more involved breaches of procedures although no wrongdoing was found, and seven investigations are still in hand.

Those wanting to report problems now have the option of contacting Dr Philip Tether, an independent member of Hull Council's Standards Committee.

Susan De Val, Head of Legal and Democratic Services, said: "It must be noted that the details of these complaints are confidential, and are not disclosable in detail in view of the ongoing investigations, which may result in criminal or disciplinary proceedings.

"The increase in activity indicates the increase in awareness of the whistle blowing policy. Most complaints are anonymous, and several have come via the independent member.

"He has commented that several complainants have stated that they prefer to have access to person external to the council in order to protect their position."

Changes in approach over the last year have included Ms De Val, as the council's whistle blowing officer, taking a more active role in the management of investigations.

Another change was the involvement of Internal Audit in undertaking some investigations to make sure that allegations are thoroughly investigated.

She said the increased caseload was manageable, although each case took up time, but a robust framework for the investigation and management of whistleblowing complaints was to be welcomed as it helped to reduce potentially fraudulent losses.