GMC publishes annual whistleblowing report

Published 25 September 2025

The General Medical Council (GMC) has today published its annual report on whistleblowing disclosures.The report shows 45 concerns were raised with the GMC between April 2024 and the end of March 2025. These disclosures were made by 18 doctors, 11 other healthcare professionals and 16 were made anonymously.

This is a reduction from the 60 whistleblowing referrals in 2024, but is consistent with figures from 2023, when 48 concerns were raised.

Anna Rowland, the GMC’s Assistant Director for Fitness to Practise Policy and Business Transformation, said:

‘We know that it is crucial for anyone who raises a whistleblowing concern to feel supported and free to speak up without fear of retribution, which is why our support for whistleblowers includes a confidential helpline. We also provide training and guidance on raising and acting on concerns.

‘Healthcare professionals can be confident that we take all whistleblowing referrals seriously, with action being taken when it is required.’

44 concerns were reviewed by the GMC’s fitness to practise team. The outcomes were:

  • 36 were closed after an initial assessment 
  • eight resulted in either a preliminary or full investigation

Of those closed after an initial assessment or investigation, some of the reasons for closure included that the concern was handled locally, advice was given to the discloser, or it was outside the GMC’s remit.

The remaining complaint was received by the GMC’s registration and revalidation team and resulted in regulatory action being taken.

The GMC’s Speaking up ethical hub provides information and advice on raising concerns and whistleblowing, in line with the regulator’s whistleblowing policy. And the GMC’s confidential helpline, staffed by trained advisors, is available between 9 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday on 0161 923 6399. 

The Whistleblowing disclosures report 2025 is published jointly by the GMC alongside:

  • General Chiropractic Council
  • General Dental Council
  • General Optical Council
  • General Osteopathic Council
  • General Pharmaceutical Council
  • Health and Care Professions Council
  • Nursing and Midwifery Council
  • Social Work England

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