While 89% of companies are said to have introduced internal reporting systems, only 23% are said to have actually received reports. The figures highlight the reality that simply establishing a system does not encourage people to speak up.
The article asks whether mechanisms for listening to employees when they feel that something is “wrong” are actually working. It indicates that internal reporting systems are important, but that having one in place alone is not sufficient.
According to the Consumer Affairs Agency's 2024 Survey of Internal Reporting Systems, 89% of companies have established such systems, while only 23% are reported to have actually received reports. Establishing a system does not necessarily mean that employees will speak up.
The article describes cases in which internal reporting systems exist but are not used, and points to the lack of mechanisms for organizations to detect signs of trouble before people feel the need to speak up. It is said that companies should not judge whether problems exist solely on the basis of whether reports have been filed.