The cost of silence

29 Oct 2026

Format:
TED-style keynote followed by facilitated panel discussion and audience Q&A.

Purpose:
The second session explores why organisational silence develops, how it affects safety, quality and learning, and why psychological safety is fundamental if organisations are to address adaptive challenges successfully. Rather than focusing solely on speaking up, the discussion examines how leaders create cultures where honest conversations become normal practice.

Themes:

  • Psychological safety
  • Organisational culture
  • Speaking up and learning
  • Leadership behaviours that encourage openness

Why this matters:
Organisations cannot learn if people do not feel safe to challenge, question and speak openly. Creating environments where honest conversations become routine is essential for improving quality, safety and organisational performance.

Speakers
Magnus Harrison
Magnus Harrison, Clinical Strategy Lead, Former Chief Medical Officer - York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust