In this episode, we explore the meaning of accountability and its role in learning and improvement. Is accountability about assigning blame, or can it be a tool for growth? We discuss the difference between backward-looking accountability, which focuses on punishment, and forward-looking accountability, which emphasizes understanding, empathy, and systemic change. Drawing on lessons from healthcare and diving, we highlight the importance of hearing multiple perspectives, addressing the needs of those impacted, and fostering a culture of responsibility over blame. By sharing real-world examples, we show how open conversations and a Just Culture approach can lead to better outcomes, stronger relationships, and meaningful improvements in safety and performance.

Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/accountability-or-another-word-for-blame

Links: Two approaches to accountability: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-007-1878-4_3

Accountability and Responsibility defined: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324582377_Accountability_and_responsibility_defined

Helping people understand what happened: https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/best-response-medical-errors-transparency

Communications and Resolutions Programmes: https://communicationandresolution.org/communication-and-resolution-programs/

‘Work as Imagined’ and “Work as Done’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtgIwHrUWVQ&list=PLNXuyLsCTX6hHS3newpcROfJ_JiI27q3C&index=24&t=1s

Restorative Just Culture in The Merseyside NHS Trust: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331284479_Restorative_Just_Culture_a_Study_of_the_Practical_and_Economic_Effects_of_Implementing_Restorative_Justice_in_an_NHS_Trust

Restorative Just Culture: http://www.safetydifferently.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/RestorativeJustCultureChecklist-1.pdf

Second and Thrid victims: https://youtu.be/YeSvCEpg6ew

Tags: English, Gareth Lock, Incidents, Just Culture