External Grievance & Whistleblower Protection Policy
Purpose
Cambridge Management Consulting Ltd (“Cambridge MC”) is committed to operating with the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and accountability. This policy sets out how any external stakeholder may raise a grievance or report a concern about Cambridge MC’s operations, and the protections afforded to those who do so.
Who This Applies To
This policy is available to all external stakeholders, including:
- Clients and customers
- Suppliers, vendors, and business partners
- Community members and members of the general public
How to Submit a Grievance
You may raise a grievance by any of the following means:
- Email: info@cambridgemc.com (Subject: “Confidential – Grievance/Whistleblower”)
- Online form: www.cambridgemc.com/external-grievance
- In writing to: Deputy COO, Cambridge Management Consulting Ltd
You may choose to remain anonymous. Anonymous submissions will be investigated to the extent possible given the information provided.
What Can Be Reported
Cambridge MC welcomes concerns relating to (but not limited to):
- Ethical misconduct including fraud, corruption, or bribery
- Human rights violations or abuse
- Breaches of our policies, codes of conduct, or contractual obligations
- Environmental violations or unsustainable practices
- Any other conduct by Cambridge MC that causes harm to stakeholders or the environment
A grievance will be accepted where it relates to the above grounds and sufficient information has been provided. Where a submission falls outside scope, you will be informed in writing with a clear explanation.
Grievance Process and Timelines
All grievances are handled through the following process:
| Stage | Timeline | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Acknowledgement | Within 3 business days | You will receive a confirmation (unless you submitted anonymously) and a reference number. |
| 2. Initial Review | Within 10 business days | We assess whether the grievance falls within scope and assign a Case Manager. |
| 3. Investigation | Within 30 calendar days | An impartial investigation is conducted. You will receive updates every 10 business days. |
| 4. Resolution | Varies by complexity | A written outcome is shared with you. If your grievance is not accepted, you will receive a written explanation. |
| 5. Appeal | Within 5 business days of decision | You may appeal in writing. A Director not involved in the original process will review and respond. |
Whistleblower Protection
Cambridge MC strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. This applies regardless of the outcome of any investigation.
Retaliation includes, but is not limited to:
- Contract cancellation or denial of future business
- Harassment or intimidation
- Any other detrimental treatment connected to raising a concern
Consequences for any confirmed retaliation:
- Suppliers, vendors, and contractors: contract termination and permanent disqualification from future engagement
- Clients and partners: suspension or termination of the business relationship
To protect those who raise concerns, Cambridge MC implements the following:
- Anonymous reporting is permitted — you may omit personal details from your submission
- All reports are handled with strict confidentiality; your identity will only be disclosed with your consent or where legally required
- Access to grievance details is restricted to the Case Manager and personnel directly involved in the investigation
- Risk to you as a complainant is assessed at the Initial Review stage; where a risk to your safety or wellbeing is identified, additional protective measures are put in place immediately
Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or following any significant legal, regulatory, or organisational change. For any questions about this policy, please contact info@cambridgemc.com.
