Psychologically Safe and Inclusive Workplaces

Psychological safety is about fostering an environment where staff feel safe to speak up, share ideas, ask questions, and make mistakes without fear of embarrassment or punishment. Creating this environment supports genuine participation and contribution by all staff as they feel valued and respected

This begins at the top – with the Board modelling and reinforcing the behaviours they expect to see in the organisation and employing evidence-based approaches to foster psychological safety.

Psychological safety is important for all staff but is heightened for those from under-represented groups who are more likely to have experience of negative consequences and inequities. It is also heightened for Centre teams undertaking community work, as this can carry a high emotional load with limited resources.

A safe workplace has an inclusive environment, fostered by making sure: all team members feel heard, accepted and valued; expectations and opportunities are equitable; and people have space to learn and develop.   

Organisations that improve psychological safety can achieve a 27% reduction in turnover, indicating a safer work environment that fosters employee loyalty and commitment.¹

Psychological safety is also part of your legislated duty of care. Under WHS laws, employers must provide a workplace that is safe both physically and psychologically (Work Health and Safety Act 2020 [WA], WA’s official Code of Practice, Model WHS Laws – Psychosocial Hazards [Safe Work Australia]).

Understanding Psychological Safety in the Workplace:

• Psychologically Safe and Inclusive Workplaces: A guide for public sector agencies
  Designed for public sector agencies this guide is relevant to all organisations to help understand psychological safety and provides practical actions to tailor to your Centre.
• The Impact Of Psychological Safety In The Workplace On Teams
• Psychological Safety at Work: The Australian Manager’s Guide to Workplace Excellence
  

Cultivating Psychological Safety

• Cultivating Psychological Safety: The Board's Critical Responsibility
  - The Board's Foundational Role
  - Strategic Governance Approaches
  - The Ripple Effects of Board-Led Psychological Safety
• Psychological safety and risk management for leaders
  - Distinguishing psychosocial risks from psychological safety
  - A legal lens on psychological safety
  - Practical steps for leaders

¹ Psychological Safety at Work: The Australian Manager’s Guide to Workplace Excellence https://diversityaustralia.com.au/psychological-safety-at-work-the-australian-managers-guide-to-workplace-excellence/