Culture

Having a safe and healthy culture creates good attitudes towards safeguarding and ensures it is taken seriously by all. The culture of an organisation sets the tone for safeguarding. 

When referring to the culture of an organisation we mean ‘the way things are done around here’. It includes the customs, values and beliefs evident in those working in and on behalf of the organisation, and its activities.

Culture can be shaped in both negative and positive ways. If an organisation is to inspire trust among its workers and community members, the desired and stated culture must be evident. Trust can quickly be eroded when words and actions do not match. That is why culture is a key responsibility for the governance board, and all those in leadership roles, and should be reviewed regularly.

An organisation that claims to stand for one thing, but whose behaviour does not support that, will negatively impact the view of all who come into contact with it. 

The development of a safer and open culture helps everyone, and includes things such us having open communication, accountability structures in place, and agreed processes for decision making.