Enhancing psychosocial safety at UNSW Business School
In a proactive move to enhance the mental well-being of its staff, the UNSW Business School has partnered with the Business Insights Institute to tackle psychosocial risks in the workplace. The initiative is set to promote a thriving work culture, fostering creativity and well-being.
Understanding psychosocial risks at work
Psychosocial risks at work are hazards arising from an employee’s social and organisational environment, management practices, and job design, causing harm to their psychological health and well-being. A recent assessment of the insights survey identified these risks impacting staff at the UNSW Business School, explained by the demands of the academic environment along with a series of idiosyncratic and general risks.
Tailored recommendations for reducing psychosocial risks
The institute delivered a report which aims to provide tailored recommendations for interventions at the UNSW Business School to reduce psychosocial risks based on the best available scientific evidence. Ensuring psychosocial safety aligns with UNSW’s core values, fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and displaying respect.
Proposed strategies for enhancing psychosocial safety
The Business Insights Institute has proposed a series of strategies, including:
- Enhancing the overall psychosocial safety climate within the Business School.
- Implementing a multi-level approach to psychosocial safety and organisation-wide upskilling in awareness and mitigation of psychosocial risks.
- Developing practical recommendations for individuals, teams, and leaders, with special attention for heads of departments (HODs) and MyCareer leaders.
- Reducing workload and role ambiguity through effective feedback and integrating well-being into career discussions.
- Designing work to account for varied roles, offering diverse support and measurement strategies to monitor psychosocial risks at different career stages.
- Recognising and rewarding positive psychosocial behaviours to prioritise safety and motivate staff.
- Implementing embedded feedback structures and reducing reporting barriers for ongoing risk monitoring.
A holistic approach to staff well-being
These strategies aim to comprehensively address identified risks, promote a thriving work environment, and align with UNSW values and legislative requirements. The Business Insights Institute envisions a holistic approach that prioritises staff well-being, ensuring a positive and supportive workplace culture at the UNSW Business School.
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