Jersey takes step closer to protecting whistleblowers

Tuesday, 17 March 2026 07:00

Whistleblowers who report wrongdoing in Jersey workplaces are to get legal protections.

A new law has been drawn up after politicians agreed almost three years ago to introduce one.

There are currently no statutory safeguards for employees who allege bad or illegal practice.

Social Security Minister Lyndsay Feltham says there is a 'clear need' for legislation that gives people the confidence to speak out without fear of reprisal.

"Whistleblowers can face serious consequences for speaking up, and there is a clear need for statutory protection for those who know of, or witness, wrongdoing by employers, individuals, organisations, or other bodies.

"Once the Law is in place, I hope it will give employees the confidence to do what they believe is right, particularly if they fear that reporting wrongdoing could put their job at risk because of actual or potential retaliation from their employer."

The 2023 vote was brought by Deputy Carina Alves who has welcomed the progress.

"I thank the Minister and her team for all the hard work that has gone into the development of the law so far and sincerely hope that the next assembly is able to move towards the successful implementation of this important legislation without delay."

Jersey Employment Forum, which advises the government on job laws, made its own call for the whistleblowing legislation last June, saying islanders should feel safe to call out injustices and criminal activity of businesses, including fraud or breaches of any kind.

Read: Calls for legal protection of whistleblowers in Jersey

The draft law will not be debated during this political term, with the general election looming in June.

Deputy Feltham says it will be for the next Social Security Minister to take the legislation forward to the next States Assembly.

In the meantime, people with an interest in the new law can submit feedback via whistleblowinglaw@gov.je.