Safety To be understood and feel safe emotionally and physically. Feeling physically, emotionally and psychologically safe is a basic human need, which is magnified for those of us who have experienced significant traumatic events.

What happens if we don t feel safe?

We may conceal our true selves and suppress our authentic feelings. Those feelings may leak out in other behaviours, which may be extreme or inappropriate.

What happens when we do feel safe?

We are more likely to:

Admit if we are struggling

Ask for help when we need it

Share our ideas and opinions openly

Seek, accept and offer constructive feedback

Watch It

Click here to see a video explaining Professor Carol Dweck s theory on fixed and growth mindset.

Click here to listen to some of our students experiences of safety

Listen

When asking students questions about their situation and circumstances, aim to balance interest with respect.

Click here for some examples of what this might sound like.

Ask yourself: how do you create a safer environment in your role? What more could you do? Click here to download a checklistTry it