Workplace Investigations

As our core service offering, Think Integrity specialises in workplace investigations that prioritise a people-centric and impartial approach, ensuring adherence to the principle of procedural fairness.

Our expertise covers a wide range of conduct and other policy breaches, including but not limited to:

Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Bullying
Employee Safety Violations
Conflicts of Interest
Whistleblowing Reports
Corruption

Fraud/Money Laundering
Theft/Stealing
Assault (Physical and Sexual)
Employee data exfiltration/Inappropriate system use and access
Any other issues involving elements of legislated offences

Every Investigation Consultant at Think Integrity has more than a decade of experience in investigations and specialist skills in advanced interviewing and evidence-gathering techniques. In addition, our investigators possess expertise in trauma-informed practices, psychosocial safety, mental health first aid, child interviewing, and digital forensics.

We are dedicated to conducting thorough and objective investigations that support a healthy and safe workplace environment. By choosing Think Integrity, you can trust that your workplace investigations will be handled with professionalism and confidentiality regardless of the complexity.

Our Process

Initial Contact

Upon notification, we engage with clients to ensure access to all relevant information and evidence. We assess the credibility, accuracy, and completeness of this information to develop a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Based on this evaluation, we determine the most appropriate course of action. Additionally, we review the client’s policies and procedures to ensure alignment and gain insights into the issue at hand.

Planning/Response

Following the initial assessment, we outline clear, prioritised steps that align with the client’s scope and requirements. We identify any gaps or weaknesses in the available information and determine areas that require further clarification to support a thorough and effective response. We also assess the necessary resources such as personnel, time, budget, and tools ensuring our response is well-supported and feasible.

Investigate

The investigation process begins, and at Think Integrity, we focus on maximising evidence collection through key steps. These include conducting interviews, gathering documentary and other forms of evidence, and, when required, outlining legally sound allegations. Throughout the process, we maintain a people-centric approach, ensuring impartiality, procedural fairness, and respect for all involved. After each action, we reassess the next steps, applying a trauma-informed approach as needed.

Evaluate

In this phase, we critically evaluate the evidence to determine whether further investigative actions are required. Our priority is to ensure the process is thorough and complete, leaving no gaps unaddressed. As part of this evaluation, we review and correlate the findings with the client’s policies and procedures to ensure all actions are in line with their established standards. If additional investigation is necessary, we return to the previous phase to gather further evidence or clarification.

Finalise

A comprehensive report is compiled, summarising the key findings of the investigation. This includes a review of the allegations, the evidence gathered, interviews conducted, and a detailed account of the investigation process. We ensure that the conclusions are fact-based, impartial, and logically presented. Before finalising the report, it undergoes a thorough review for accuracy and fairness, addressing any concerns to uphold the integrity of the findings.

Resolve (Optional)

In collaboration with the client, we implement any necessary actions, which may involve a business-wide response based on the investigation’s findings. This could include applying Human Organisational Performance principles to address psychosocial hazards, revising policies or processes, or providing training. Additionally, we work with the client to monitor the effectiveness of these actions, offering ongoing support to ensure the resolution effectively addresses the issue and prevents future problems.

Why Use an External Investigator

Impartiality and Objectivity

An external investigator provides a neutral, unbiased perspective that helps avoid conflicts of interest and builds trust in the investigation process. This impartiality enhances the credibility of findings and reassures all stakeholders.

Specialised Expertise

With skills in interviewing, evidence analysis, and reporting, external investigators bring the expertise necessary for comprehensive and professional investigations, ensuring a thorough approach that is often challenging to replicate internally.

Confidentiality and Privacy

External investigators work outside the organisation’s daily operations, allowing them to manage sensitive information discreetly. This independence helps employees feel safe reporting concerns and protects confidential data.

Minimal Disruption to Operations

Outsourcing investigations allows your team to focus on core responsibilities without interference. External investigators handle all aspects of the investigation, reducing internal disruption and ensuring minimal impact on productivity.

Compliance and Risk Management

External investigators understand relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices, ensuring that the investigation complies with standards. This approach helps mitigate legal and reputational risks.

Positive Reporting Culture

An independent investigator can encourage a culture of openness, making employees more likely to report issues, knowing they will be handled impartially, objectively and professionally.

Efficient Resource Use

Hiring an external investigator provides access to necessary expertise without a long-term commitment, making it a cost-effective solution for complex cases that demand specific skills and experience.