Charity trustee whistleblowers win big in tribunal

Nearly a million charity trustees in the UK have gained enhanced legal protection for whistleblowing following a significant tribunal ruling. The employment appeal tribunal supported Nigel MacLennan’s claim against the British Psychological Society, which highlighted the need for protections for trustees who report governance failures. MacLennan, who reported serious issues to the Charity Commission, faced dismissal and claimed it caused “profound damage” to his reputation. The judge, James Tayler, ruled that the original tribunal failed to consider the rights of trustees adequately, stating that “relevant factors” should include the trustee’s role and responsibility. This ruling clarifies that future tribunals must consider the protections available to charity trustees, marking a pivotal moment for whistleblower rights in the sector. MacLennan stressed the need for effective scrutiny without fear of retaliation, while the British Psychological Society acknowledged the ruling’s “potentially far-reaching implications.”