Is it okay to privately discuss your concerns with a senior member of staff before whistleblowing?

NO! definately NOT!!! That senior staff member was covering his and HE became the whistleblower ON YOU!!! You NEVER tell anyone within the inner circle!!! Now they are going to dig up every dirty thing you have ever done in your life, and your AXX will be gr!!! Watch and see how he twists evrything you told him! HE is going to be the good guy, because there is what they call honor among thieves! There is no trust when it comes to saving your own job!