Building a speaking-up culture

Checklist for leaders

Staying vigilant is everyone’s role. As leaders, make sure everyone in your community organisation knows they should speak up early, ask questions and support transparency.

If something doesn’t seem right - even if you're unsure.
About unusual or overly generous offers of funding, gifts, or donations.
About requests or pressure to bypass normal decision-making processes.
About inappropriate requests for access to sensitive information.
If you feel pressured or uncomfortable.
Know who to go to if you need to discuss a concern.
Acknowledge and value those who speak up as this can encourage others to do the same.

If an opportunity or offer feels too good to be true - trust your instincts.
Check if new proposals, partnerships, or offers align with your organisation’s mission, values, and goals.
Verify the background and reputation of new partners, donors, or external contacts.
Consider how an offer or partnership might affect your organisation’s independence or reputation.
Encourage open discussion among your team when something feels uncertain or unusual.
Keep front of mind: are we staying true to our organisation’s mission?

Make sure decisions are made in a transparent, accountable way.
Keep records of key decisions, including who was involved and why they were made.
Disclose potential conflicts of interest, even if they seem minor.
Be clear about how and why the organisation engages with partners, funders, or stakeholders.
Encourage open conversations about ethical concerns or grey areas.
Stick to agreed decision-making processes.
Create a culture where questions about decisions or processes are welcomed.