Since April 2024, I have been exploring the concept of psychological safety, considering how it applies to the experiences of marginalised people who work and study in large institutions.

Whilst it is common to consider how physically safe an environment is, what are the questions we need to ask in order to ensure people feel psychologically safe?

This is even more important when we consider those who have experienced present or historical harm from the same institutions.

Start here

an easy introduction to the term on my substack, with some important questions to determine what safety looks like for you in the context of physical space.
answer these questions at work. in your teams. in the buildings you spend the most time. in the spaces you choose to be in, and the spaces you have to be in.

next: a reading list that shows why we need psychological safety when working (and/or studying) in institutions.
the research is harrowing, but reveals a lot about the radical intervention required.

[coming soon]

on self-preservation: audre lorde’s popularised quote inspired the direction of my research heavily. I realised that seeking psychological safety was crucial because it creates room for our self-preservation.

a lack of safety threatens our ability to show up.
spaces of safety allow us to continue our work.

Slides from the conference sessions I delivered on the topic

we need to preserve our existence in these spaces, and in turn,

Slides from the conference sessions I delivered on the topic

so what is it? how do I define psychological safety?

an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves, take risks and engage without fear of negative consequences to their identity, status or career.
(reference: Green, 2025)

published earlier this year, I share more in this journal article and suggest what is needed for us to improve our experiences in academic institutions.

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listen to me discuss why psychological safety should be prioritised for learners in large institutions, in this short podcast episode with the L&T Chat Show

what’s next?

Conversations with academics and creatives who have considered psychological safety in their own environments. What do you think about this? Email me and let me know.

A standardised tool: how do we audit how much psychological safety is present in a space? What would be the benefit?

I’ve submitted a book proposal to BERA x Emerald Publishing because I think there is a lot to discuss.

AMBERLEE GREEN: more than one thing.

AMBERLEE GREEN:
more than one
thing.