We believe it is important that employees can work in pleasant conditions. This applies to physical aspects, such as the right tools to work safely and effectively. It also applies to non-physical aspects, such as treating each other with respect. However, things do not always go as planned. Under the Whistleblower Policy and the Psychosocial Workload (PSA) policy, three central confidential advisers have been appointed for the Dutch VDL companies. These advisers are in addition to any confidential advisers at your own VDL company.
What can you turn to a confidential adviser for?
- Unwanted conduct (PSA): this concerns conduct and communication that you experience as unwanted or hurtful. It is intended or results in you feeling unsafe in the workplace. This includes discrimination, bullying, (sexual) harassment, aggression and violence. The confidential adviser offers a listening ear. They can advise you on the different options available, including their advantages and disadvantages. You always remain in control of the steps you take.
- Integrity issues (Whistleblower Scheme): this provides a safe way to report suspected misconduct where others breach the organisation’s standards and values. This may involve theft, abuse of power, corruption, fraud, embezzlement, or the misuse or manipulation of information. The confidential adviser acts as a sounding board when considering whether to report something. If this has consequences for society, such as breaking the law or endangering public health, personal safety, the environment, or the proper functioning of public services, reporting is mandatory. In that case, the confidential adviser can support you in making the report.
- In principle, the confidential adviser is not intended for private problems, workplace conflicts, work pressure or reorganisations. However, the confidential adviser will listen. Talking about an unwanted situation can often provide relief and create space.
- The confidential adviser is not a mediator.
- A confidential adviser has a duty of confidentiality. Everything discussed is confidential and anonymous. The confidential adviser may only breach this duty in cases involving criminal offences or misconduct that affects the public interest or EU law.
- VDL’s confidential advisers may refer cases to one another.
- You can always contact a confidential adviser without involving or obtaining permission from colleagues or managers.
Who are the confidential advisers at VDL Groep?
If your VDL company already has a confidential adviser, they are your first point of contact. If you do not wish or cannot approach this person, or your company does not have a confidential adviser, it is good to know that this is organised centrally.
The confidential advisers are:
PSA Policy and Whistleblowing Procedure
You can download the Whistleblowing Policy and the Psychosocial Workload Policy
below. You can also find these policies in the company regulations of your VDL company.
