What Happens After You Raise a Concern?
Raising a concern is the beginning of a process, not the end of the conversation.
What happens next will depend on what you have raised, how it has been raised and what needs to happen to understand or respond to it.
In most cases, your concern should be received, considered carefully and directed to the appropriate person or process. You should be given information about what happens next and, where appropriate, kept informed as the concern is considered.
The important thing is that you understand what to expect and know where you can go if you have questions.
What Can You Expect from the Process?
The exact process will vary depending on the nature of the concern. Some concerns may be resolved through an informal conversation, while others may need a more formal review or investigation.
You may be asked for more information to help understand what has happened. You should have an opportunity to explain your concerns and provide any relevant information you have.
If you have raised your concern through a secure reporting system, you may also be able to return to the system to check for updates, respond to questions or provide additional information.
You do not need to know in advance what process is required. The important thing is that your concern is listened to and handled appropriately.
What if You are Asked for More Information?
It is normal for someone handling a concern to need more information before they can understand what has happened.
You may be asked questions about what you saw, experienced or were told. You can share what you know and explain if there is anything you are unsure about.
You do not need to have every detail or be able to prove what happened before raising a concern. Sharing the information you have can help the organisation understand the situation and decide what needs to happen next.
If you are unsure about what you are being asked or why, you can ask for clarification.
What Happens if Your Concern Needs Further Action?
Sometimes a concern can be addressed relatively quickly. In other situations, it may need further review, action or investigation.
The people responsible for responding to the concern should consider what is appropriate based on the information available and the nature of the issue.
You may not be able to know every detail of what happens behind the scenes, particularly where other people or confidential information is involved. However, you should be given appropriate information about the progress of your concern and what you can expect next.
What Happens After the Concern has Been Considered?
Once a concern has been reviewed, there may be actions that need to be taken. These will depend on what has been found and what is appropriate in the circumstances.
You may be told what has happened as a result of your concern, although there may be limits to what can be shared, particularly where other people’s privacy or confidentiality is involved.
If you are not sure what the outcome means, it is reasonable to ask questions or seek further support. You should not be left wondering where to go if you need clarification.
What if You are Unhappy with What Happens Next?
If you feel that your concern has not been handled appropriately, you can ask questions about the process or raise your concerns with the person responsible for responding.
Depending on the circumstances, there may be other routes available to you, including speaking to someone independently about what has happened and what options you may have.
You do not have to navigate this alone. If you are unsure what to do next, taking time to talk things through can help you understand your options before deciding what to do.
Need to Talk it Through?
If you have raised a concern and are unsure about what happens next, you can speak to a Clear Voice Guardian.
Our Guardians provide an independent space to listen, help you understand what is happening and talk through your options.
You remain in control of what you decide to do.
