FAQ
The TWU Ethics and Compliance Hotline allows University employees and others to anonymously report serious violations or infractions. Whether making a report openly or anonymously, employees are protected from:
- Retaliation,
- Harassment,
- Reprisals, or
- Victimization for whistleblowing in good faith.
Who is a Whistleblower?
A whistleblower is a person who raises a concern about misconduct occurring in an organization. Such misconduct may be a violation of law, rule or regulation, the act of fraud, health and safety violations, or corruption.
What is Lighthouse Services?
Lighthouse Services is an independent company that has been providing confidential, 24-hour reporting services since 1998. Lighthouse Services enables companies of all sizes to maintain an ethical workplace and address fraud, abuse, regulatory violations and other inappropriate behavior. The company is regarded as one of the most successful hotline providers in the industry, servicing more than 1,000 clients.
Why should I use the Ethics and Compliance Hotline?
A key component of the hotline is to provide a method for reports to be made confidentially and anonymously using a third party vendor.
Who can file a report via the hotline?
TWU's policy on whistleblowing allows for all students and employees — including full-time, part-time, vendors and temporary help — to use the hotline service.
Will my identity remain anonymous?
Yes. Your anonymity will be protected to the extent possible by the law and Lighthouse Services will never divulge your identity without your permission.
What types of things should be reported using the hotline?
Examples of serious issues that might be reported include, but are not limited to:
- Falsification of contracts, reports or records;
- Harassment and discrimination;
- Theft and embezzlement;
- Unsafe working conditions;
- Violations of University policy; and
- Violations of the law.
See the Hotline Reporting Examples page for more detailed information.
Can I include documentation?
Yes. Report to the hotline sent via the website or fax allow for this option.
Can I include my contact information?
Yes. You are encouraged, but not obligated, to provide Lighthouse Services with your contact information so the company can contact you if additional information is needed. However, while providing contact information is helpful, you always have the option to remain anonymous.
How do I get a status update on my report?
Be sure to write down and protect the report number that will be provided at the time you submit a report. If you have questions about the status of your report, please contact the hotline toll-free phone number at 844-406-0004 and provide your report number.
What can I expect to learn from a status update?
You will learn 1) that the investigation is ongoing, 2) that an investigation has been completed and is closed, or 3) that an investigation could not be completed because not enough information was provided or you will be provided an opportunity to offer additional information.
All reports will be taken seriously and adjudicated appropriately; the resolution of issues reported through the hotline that contain private and confidential information under the law and TWU policy and procedure will remain private and confidential.
Do I have an obligation to make a report?
Consistent with the University’s mission and as a community of ethical decision makers, it is of the utmost importance that improprieties are reported so that corrective action can be taken. The hotline offers TWU employees, students and vendors the ability to do this anonymously.
I am afraid of retaliation, how do I know I will not be fired for making a report?
It is a violation of TWU policy to retaliate against whistleblowers. Please see University Regulation and Procedure 2.45, Whistleblower Protection. In addition, the Texas Whistleblower Act provides an avenue for employees to raise concerns anonymously and reassurance that they will be protected from retaliation, harassment, reprisals or victimization for whistleblowing in good faith.
Where can I learn more about TWU Codes of Conduct?
Page last updated 12:21 PM, June 22, 2018