This week has involved two opportunities for speaking to an audience of double figures. Today I spoke about Freedom to Speak Up (FTSU) for nearly an hour as part of our hospital's virtual Event in the Tent. As we approach Speak Up month in October this was an excellent opportunity for me as a FTSU Guardian to tell people about the background to FTSU and what it means for us as an organisation and individuals.
As ever I had a few nerves about such events so the positive feedback was welcome and indeed a little moving. And it has encouraged one more person to ask if they can speak up.
This was about speaking up.
The day before I spoke of the impact that COVID-19 has had in and on my life, and a particular loss I experienced, in a 5 minute slot. The etiquette of that event means I can share few details. It felt important though to tell my story to an audience in a safe environment despite the emotional impact. Anger and fear were described and the resonance of these in my life recognised. Doing so enabled others to share and reflect on the impact of COVID-19.
This was about speaking out.
Taking the time to do these has been in some way cathartic and useful as I unravel my own feelings and take forward my endeavours as a Freedom to Speak up Guardian. We often say that listening is important, though I have found this week speaking out and speaking up have their place too.
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