COMPASSION. We respond with humanity and kindness to each person’s pain, distress, anxiety or need. We search for the things we can do, however small, to give comfort and relieve suffering. We find time for those we serve and work alongside. We do not wait to be asked, because we care. (National Health Service, 2010)
When it comes to caregiving, illness and bereavement, how do we as employers and work colleagues respond when challenges occur in the lives of the people we work with? For many this can be an uncomfortable space where we do not know what to say and do. When this happens our work colleagues can increasingly feel isolated and unsupported.
How employers and coworkers respond when times are difficult can radically shift a person’s relationship to their workplace. Research has shown that caring workplace cultures can make a positive contribution by increasing morale, supporting employee retention, reducing absences and increasing productivity.
In support of the Compassionate Bunbury Charter the South West Compassionate Communities Network is partnering with the South West Development Commission and the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BGCCI) to hold a workshop on July 17 at the BGCCI focusing on building a caring organisation, one where we can support each during challenging times.
Do you work in the South West of Western Australia? Then we would like to hear about your workplace experiences.
Thank you. If you would like to receive the workshop program and be kept informed about opportunities to build compassionate workplaces then send us a message.