6 Tips for Creating a Compassionate Culture of Care

Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security℠. These four words have a lot of power. Forming the heart of our Nonviolent Crisis Intervention^® training program philosophy, these words—and their meaning and value—extend to everyone involved in a crisis situation. From the person displaying aggressive behavior to the staff members striving to de-escalate the crisis to the bystanders witnessing the situation, everyone deserves respect and dignity at all times.

Here are six tips for providing Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security℠ for a student, a patient, or anyone in your care:

1. Build relationships based on trust. When a person knows you understand him, the rapport you have with him will help you help him calm down when he’s upset.
2. Learn to recognize warning signs. Being aware of the signals a person gives when she’s agitated will help you focus on prevention.
3. Consider the situation from the person’s perspective. This will help you ensure that the person feels respected—not humiliated.
4. Be aware of how you’re communicating verbally and nonverbally. Being mindful of factors like how much personal space a person needs and what tone of voice you use will help you convey respect and compassion.
5. Debrief after a crisis. This will ensure that the situation serves as a learning opportunity for the person, and for staff. Debriefing will help everyone learn for next time—or prevent a “next time” from occurring.
6. Get training. Ensuring that you and your coworkers have the skills to practice safe interventions will ensure Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security℠ for each other and the people in your care.

Putting these four simple words into action during chaos can make an enormous difference for every person involved in a crisis situation.