Acas offers a range of guidance on important workplace issues such as equality, discipline and grievance, line management skills, communication and employee engagement.

For more information see link: http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1339

The whistle-blowing helpline for NHS staff is being extended to staff and employers in the social care sector from 1 January 2012. There is also a new number for the service, which encompasses all of the elements of the current helpline service and is free, independent and confidential.

The new helpline number will be 08000 724 725.

The helpline will operate on weekdays between 08.00 and 18.00 with an out-of-hours answering service available at weekends and on public holidays. A web-based service is also being developed.

For more information see link; http://www.dh.gov.uk/health/2011/12/whistleblowing-helpline/

Safeguarding adults at risk of harm: A legal guide for practitioners commissioned by the Department of Health in response to requests from practitioners for a comprehensive guide to the legal framework underpinning adult safeguarding work. Download this very useful document from the link; http://www.scie.org.uk/publications/reports/report50.asp?dm_i=4O5,MYUB,RMSIW,1UX5V,1

“Excellent document and really useful case studies written in plain English. I have emailed it to all my colleagues!” said one practitioner

The Department for Education yesterday (30.11.11) released the final Children in Need statistics, including Child Protection, for the year to 31 March 2011.  To view and/or download the reports go to http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/STR/d001041/osr26-2011.pdf