Staff across NHS Lanarkshire will soon have access to new practical support to help resolve workplace concerns around inappropriate behaviours and rebuild positive working relationships.
Respectful Resolution is a new approach focused on helping colleagues discuss, defuse and de-escalate difficult situations in a constructive and supportive way.
It recognises the serious impact that bullying, harassment and inappropriate behaviour can have on individuals and teams. By looking at what has happened, focusing on specific behaviours and considering the needs of everyone involved, the approach aims to help colleagues identify the most appropriate route towards resolution.
Jacqui Jones, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of HR, said: “Everyone has the right to feel respected, supported and safe at work. We know that workplace difficulties involving inappropriate behaviours can be challenging and distressing for everyone involved, and it is important that colleagues feel able to raise concerns and receive the right support.”
“Respectful Resolution will give staff and managers practical tools to address difficult situations constructively. It will encourage people to take a step back, consider what has happened and focus on the behaviours involved so that they can identify the most appropriate way forward.
“Where it is appropriate, this could involve addressing concerns at an early stage through a constructive conversation, restorative discussion, coaching or training. Where that is not appropriate, or has not resolved the situation, the approach will help ensure the concern is directed to the right next step.”
Practical guidance will be developed for everyone who may be involved in a workplace concern, including the person experiencing the behaviour, the person whose behaviour has raised concern, witnesses and managers. The programme will also include structured team discussions and exercises to help colleagues better understand bullying, its impact and the role everyone can play in building a respectful, values-led workplace culture.
Jacqui added: “Creating a positive workplace culture is a shared responsibility. This programme will help teams have important conversations about how our behaviours affect other people and what each of us can do to build healthier working relationships.
“This is about creating a culture where people feel confident to speak up, where concerns are handled fairly and sensitively, and where everyone involved is supported to find the best possible resolution.
“It will also help us learn from difficult situations. By identifying lessons for individuals, teams and the wider organisation, we can make meaningful improvements and support positive, lasting change across NHS Lanarkshire.”
Implementation planning is now under way and will include tailored guides and e-learning, development sessions and specialist training.
The approach will also be embedded within relevant NHS Lanarkshire systems, processes and development programmes.
