Nearly 200 colleagues complete Active Bystander training to help us Call It Out
Nearly 200 colleagues have now completed Active Bystander training, helping to strengthen our collective confidence to challenge behaviour that isn't in line with our values.
Among those who completed the evaluation, seven in ten said they were more likely to speak up when witnessing inappropriate behaviour following the training, while all respondents reported some positive increase in their willingness to take action.
As part of our Call It Out campaign, the training was delivered by external specialists and provided practical tools to help staff support patients and colleagues, challenge behaviour that is not in line with our values and address concerns in the moment. Whether it is racism, discrimination, bullying, exclusion or poor practice, the sessions reinforced that we all have a role to play in creating safe, respectful environments across our teams and services.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with most respondents rating the training as good or excellent and saying they would recommend it to colleagues. Many reported a better understanding of active bystander behaviour, the different ways they can safely intervene and a greater willingness to speak up when they witness inappropriate behaviour.
Throughout the sessions, colleagues explored practical intervention techniques, including the different approaches available when responding to unacceptable behaviour. Participants highlighted that there is no single "right" way to act and that small interventions can make a meaningful difference to creating psychologically safe workplaces.
One colleague said: "I've learned about indirect approach. Being an active bystander doesn't mean confronting every situation directly, but recognising when something isn't right and taking safe, appropriate action to support others."
Another reflected: "I feel more encouraged to speak out. I am more able to use the Trust positive cultural language to frame and position [concerns] and that is very helpful."
Participants also said the training helped them understand the importance of challenging behaviour, supporting colleagues and recognising that everyone, regardless of role, has a responsibility to contribute to a positive culture.
The feedback has highlighted opportunities to build on the training in future, including more discussion time, interactive exercises and role-play scenarios. These suggestions will help shape future sessions and ensure colleagues continue to receive practical support in developing the confidence to challenge inappropriate behaviour.
Thank you to everyone who has taken part so far. By speaking up, supporting one another and challenging behaviours that do not align with our values, we can all play a part in creating a safer, kinder and more inclusive workplace for everyone.
