A discussion with a disillusioned friend last week, about R U OK Day and similar campaigns prompted me to write this month's blog..

Workplaces need policies and managers and HR officers that are well trained to deal with issues and have the confidence and authority to follow up.

A fair, inclusive and respectful workplace takes continual commitment from everyone in the workplace. Policies and procedures that are not followed, not consistent and not transparent; and training sessions that get forgotten as soon as everyone leaves the room, foster a culture of stress and distrust. As I regularly say during my training 'this session is not enough if it's the only thing you do!'.

Initiatives like R U OK Day are brilliant campaigns to start conversations but they only go so far. There is no easy fix, one size fits all branded initiative to carry this to the next stage - the next stage is within the organisation and takes work and commitment. Or if the organisation is not getting it right the next stage may be Equal Opportunity Tasmania: Office of the Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, WorkSafe Tasmania or FairWork. 

Business' like Respect at Work can and will assist workplaces to improve their culture and processes, but it requires commitment and time and there are no Band-Aids. All of us deserve a mentally safe, fair and rewarding workplace. Please get in touch if your workplace needs assistance.