For managers, lecturers and supervisors

To create the healthcare of the future, we must continue to learn, reimagine ourselves and adjust to a changing world. That requires a flexible attitude: we must be open to new ideas, have the courage to try things, continue to ask questions, challenge each other and provide feedback.

This is only possible if the environment we create together encourages this. And is a place where you are valued and feel free to speak up. Mental health and happiness at work are also important to be able to develop and do your job well. An environment in which everyone comes into their own contributes to this. We create that environment together.

Research has shown that not everyone considers UMC Utrecht to be a pleasant and safe place where everyone treats each other openly and respectfully. We want to do something about that. With This is us we are together forging an open, socially safe, encouraging and inclusive working and learning environment for everyone.

As a manager, lecturer or supervisor at UMC Utrecht, you have a responsibility and must lead the way when it comes to encouraging behavior that is appropriate to a socially safe, open, encouraging and inclusive working and learning environment.

What does leading by example mean for you as a manager, lecturer or supervisor?
This is us belongs to all of us and is for all of us. Everyone at UMC Utrecht contributes to a pleasant and safe working and learning environment. In positions such as yours, you are a role model, with a vital contribution to make. Because when you set the right example, you inspire others to follow your lead. Moreover, you are often the first point of contact and your accessibility, eye for situations and attention are important for the people you work with.

This is us may result in any of the following:

• People come to you with a question about undesirable behavior, an observation or a bad experience that they want to discuss.

• You yourself observe undesirable behavior and you need to challenge someone on it.

• There is a need to discuss undesirable/desired behavior within your department or team. Or with a group of students or colleagues.

• You yourself experience undesirable behavior and want guidance in this.

• You yourself need more input on undesirable behavior to be better prepared on the subject.

To help you with this, we have prepared a Quick reference card with tips and suggestions on how to start a conversation about this. Of course, the HR partner of your division or directorate is also aware of this program and you can discuss it together if you wish.

You can also visit the website for tools and training courses that can help you with conversations or for your own development. Look under the heading staff member.

Finally, we have created an email address for information about This is us. We think it is important that you contribute your own experiences and those of the students and staff with whom you work a lot. Email your questions and suggestions to ditzijnwij@umcutrecht.nl. Your questions will be received and answered by the This is us project team.