At our best, our ships are a place where everyone feels they belong, can be themselves, and can say what they really think. That only happens when we create an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up – whether it’s sharing a new idea, raising a concern, or giving honest feedback.
Psychological safety isn’t a buzzword. It’s knowing you can speak up without being judged. When people feel safe to be honest, we learn faster, solve problems better, and support one another more effectively.
What does psychological safety look like?
A psychologically safe environment feels like this:
- People listen without interrupting or dismissing.
- Questions are encouraged and welcomed.
- Mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn, not something to hide.
- Different perspectives are valued, even if they challenge how things are usually done.
- Everyone feels able to say “I don’t know,” “I need help,” or “I disagree”.
- Feedback is shared respectfully and received with openness, not defensiveness.
How can each of us do our part?
Creating psychological safety isn’t just the responsibility of leaders – we all contribute. A few small habits can make a big difference:
- Be curious, not critical. Ask questions before assuming.
- Show appreciation. Thank people for speaking up, even if you don’t fully agree.
- Be honest. When you’re open, it gives others permission to be open too.
- Listen to understand, not to respond. Let people finish and reflect back what you’ve heard.
- Share feedback with care. Use clear, kind language and focus on the behaviour or topic, not the person.
- Invite quieter voices in. A simple “What do you think?” can make someone feel valued.
This becomes even more important when our Life On Board Survey launches on 20 April
It’s a key opportunity for everyone to share what’s working well and where we need to improve. So when the survey lands, speak openly and honestly – your voice genuinely helps shape how we work and supports positive change to life on board our ships.
Creating an environment where everyone feels they belong isn’t the responsibility of a single team or role – it’s up to all of us. Here’s how you can get involved…
We have a great range of learning tools and activities to help build your knowledge and play your part in creating an inclusive environment – click here to find out more. Plus, here’s information about some of the dates that colleagues may be recognising this month:
- All month – Stress Awareness Month
Stress Awareness Month offers a chance to spread awareness and increase your knowledge on managing or preventing stress. Find out more including useful self-care tips here and remember to make use of our Crew Assistance Programme for useful information and advice.- 3 April – Good Friday
Good Friday is an important religious observance for many Christians, marking a day of reflection and remembrance. It’s often a public holiday for many meaning they get the opportunity to rest, recharge and reflect. This may not always be possible onboard, so we ask that you’re mindful of those who observe Easter and try to support rest, reflection and work-life balance where possible.- 5 April – Easter Sunday: Easter Sunday is a significant Christian celebration focused on hope, renewal and new beginnings. For many, it’s a time to connect with family, friends and loved ones.
- 7 April – World Health Day: World Health Day draws attention to global health priorities and the important of physical and mental wellbeing for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to reinforce healthy habits – check out our Crew Assistance Programme for information and advice to support your wellbeing.
- 14 April – Pan American Day: Pan American Day commemorates the unity, friendship, and voluntary cooperation among the republics of North America, Central America (including the Caribbean), and South America. It marks the 1890 establishment of the International Union of American Republics (now the Organization of American States) to promote peace, democracy, and economic collaboration.
- 14 April – Vaisakhi: Vaisakhi is a Sikh festival celebrating the formation of the Khalsa in 1699 and the spring harvest in parts of India. People often go to the Gurdwara in the morning for a service followed by a procession through the streets called the Nagar Kirtan with lots of singing and chanting and colourful clothes. This is then followed by a special meal with family and friends in the evening.
Together we can create an inclusive environment for everyone – click here to find out more.