As workplace reviews repeatedly show the necessity of whistleblowing support for employees who experience bullying, harassment and other issues, does the telephone hotline still have a place? Joanna Lewis argues that it is more important than ever.
In an age of digital transformation, it’s easy to assume that whistleblowing hotlines are becoming obsolete. With the rise of online forms, AI-driven tools, and social media, some believe the traditional hotline is losing relevance.
But let’s be clear: hotlines are not just nice to have – they’re essential. Especially when it comes to safeguarding workplace culture and emotional safety.
Online reporting is undeniably on the rise. Safecall’s most recent Benchmark Report shows that in 2019, one-third of reports came through its online portal. By 2024, that figure had more than doubled to seven in ten. Meanwhile, telephone reports declined from 56% to 29%.
This shift reflects broader trends; increased tech adoption across generations, and a preference among younger employees, in particular, for digital engagement.
But these numbers tell only part of the story. Despite the fact that hotline use has slowed and the use of tech is on the rise, nearly a third of reports are still made by phone. So this begs the question – why?
Put simply, hotlines offer something technology cannot: human connection. They allow individuals to speak confidentially with a trained specialist – someone who listens, understands, and guides...
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