Central Coast Council, and its staff, have faced challenges over the years, dealing with the merger of two Councils, a financial crisis and the organisation being under Administration.
This disruption has been felt by staff and subsequently reflected in negative net promoter scores (NPS), and low trust.
As the organisation recovered, Water and Sewer Director, and People Pillar Executive Sponsor Jamie Loader, and People and Culture Unit Manager at the time Krystie Bryan, saw an opportunity to improve staff engagement, and in turn, outcomes for the organisation.
Focusing on psychological safety, the Council employed Psychological Safety and Wellbeing Lead Specialist Jayne Cheswick.
Psychological safety refers to a climate where individuals feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, ideas, and concerns without fear of negative consequences.
In a psychologically safe environment people feel accepted, respected, and valued for who they are. They are free to share their opinions, take interpersonal risks and make mistakes without the fear of being ridiculed or punished. It is a crucial element for fostering a healthy and productive work environment.
Initially, Jayne met and engaged with Council teams to build an understanding of the concept and how it could benefit them, then worked with Council leaders around specific rituals and behaviours to create psychological safety. The overall aim for all was to build trust.
In 2024, teams will be assessed on their level of psychological safety via the Fearless Organisation Scan based on Amy Edmondson’s research on psychological safety, specifically the four domains of willingness to help, open conversation, attitude to risk and failure, and inclusion and diversity.
Council’s aim to create a climate of psychological safety is starting to be achieved, reflected through a shift in the theme of wellbeing from one of the top three detractors, to a top three promoter with improved NPS results.
Kudos however must be given to the willingness of Council leaders and staff to embrace the change and move forward as an organisation, in particular as Council welcomes back elected Councillors in September this year.
