“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
You Don’t Need a Leader to Be a Good Friend
In my work I’m often struck by a reliance on leadership to provide permission for a colleague to help a colleague. Whether it relates to a behavioural issue, a mistake or poor wellbeing many point to a failure of the leaders in the setting. I’ve spent the last 17 years using a framework of personal … Continue reading You Don’t Need a Leader to Be a Good Friend
The Swimming Pool Lesson: What My Granddaughter Taught Me About Active Bystandership
At the weekend I was in the swimming pool with my three-year-old granddaughter Arra, when I noticed something that made me smile. She wasn’t just splashing in the water or clinging to the side. She was watching. Her eyes moved from child to child, taking in what they were doing, how they were behaving, and … Continue reading The Swimming Pool Lesson: What My Granddaughter Taught Me About Active Bystandership
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