Whether NHS staff can be downgraded while a case arising from a whistleblowing incidence is being investigated.

The Implementing & Reviewing Whistleblowing Arrangements in NHSScotland PIN was introduced in 2011. The policy makes clear that if a member of staff raises a genuine whistleblowing concern under this policy, they will not be at risk of losing their job or suffering any detriment as a result.
Individual cases are contractual matters which, by law, remain between the employee and their employer, i.e. individual health boards. Some cases are complex requiring the application of a range of policies. It would be for the relevant health board to consider the specific circumstances of each whistleblowing case and, where necessary, to take appropriate action to protect patient safety.