Andy Burnham's words at the Labour conference yesterday are powerful: “When we pull as one, there is nothing we can’t achieve.” For me, these words capture something fundamental about the purpose of my ASOne active bystandership programme with Policing, Fire & Rescue and military settings. They speak to the potential of people who look out … Continue reading When We Pull ASOne, There Is Nothing We Can’t Achieve – Why cultures of support bring out the best in all of us
What If We Stockpiled Human Connection?
We are very good at stockpiling things. We fill our cupboards with food, our garages with possessions, and our bank accounts with money. We prepare for uncertain times by accumulating resources, hoping that when we need something, it will be there. We understand the importance of preparing for scarcity. But what if there is another … Continue reading What If We Stockpiled Human Connection?
Disturb the Silence: Why the Royal Navy Is Stronger When People Speak Up
“Hello darkness, my old friend…” Few song lyrics are as recognisable as those from Simon & Garfunkel’s The Sound of Silence. The song speaks of isolation, disconnection, and people who, despite seeing problems, fail to speak. While written in a very different context, its central idea remains relevant today: silence has consequences. In military organisations, … Continue reading Disturb the Silence: Why the Royal Navy Is Stronger When People Speak Up
The Wrong Question? Why “There Were No Opportunities to Spot Him” Misses the Bigger Issue
This blog focuses on the emerging story of PC Alan Greer, who, after an investigation after his suicide, has committed numerous sexual offences and attempted murder. See https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3v0rq66q3no “Senior officers insisted there were no opportunities to spot his offending sooner.” The above statement, made in response to the emerging case of PC Alan Greer, may … Continue reading The Wrong Question? Why “There Were No Opportunities to Spot Him” Misses the Bigger Issue
Health and Safety Is Everyone’s Job: Why Active Bystandership Could Transform UK Workplaces
Health and safety has traditionally been viewed as a matter of policies, procedures, risk assessments and compliance. Every UK workplace has legal duties, managers with responsibilities and systems designed to prevent accidents. Yet despite decades of legislation, people are still injured, made ill or killed at work every year. Why? Because hazards don’t just exist … Continue reading Health and Safety Is Everyone’s Job: Why Active Bystandership Could Transform UK Workplaces
