ACCA and ESRC unlock £30k to research most effective whistleblowing policies globally

Both organisations are seeking proposals from around the world, for in-depth research into whistleblowing which will inform new work that will build on their recently published report called Culture and Channelling Corporate Behaviour.

ACCA and the ESRC are looking for evidence and insights into how successfully  whistleblowing procedures and other ‘speak up’ arrangements are managed by organisations, whether these are internal, external, or as a combination of both arrangements.

Both bodies have recognised a gap in understanding and knowledge as a result of publishing Culture and Channelling Corporate Behaviour, a report which aimed to help boards understand culture and the drivers of behaviour in their organisations, recommending actions to facilitate change where needed.

Ewan Willars, Director of Policy at ACCA, said: “We are seeking global proposals that identify the benefits, challenges and best practices associated with internal and / or external types of whistleblowing or speak up arrangements. It should aim to inform policy and practice as well as advancing academic research in the area.”

Adrian Alsop, Director of Research, Partnerships and International at the ESRC adds: ‘This call for research builds on a successful partnership between ESRC and ACCA, and  is an exciting opportunity to investigate the different whistleblowing arrangements that organisations employ, as well as other mechanisms that they might use.’

Proposals and supporting materials should be in a single electronic file in either Word or PDF format, not exceeding 20 pages and including the ESRC Pathway to Impact methodology.

The deadline for submitting proposals is 30 April 2015.

The winning proposal will be announced by June and projects will have to be completed by March 2016.

For more information about the programme, or content of the proposals, email researchcalls@accaglobal.com or visit ACCA’s website.