Psychological safety and psychosocial prevention are not just one-off projects in Odense Municipality – they are a shared direction. Rehabilitation Manager Ulla Leth has decided that all employees across her four departments will complete the foundational courses in Strain Psychology and Psychological Safety.

"It’s important to me that we have these conversations together – so it becomes something we all are familiar with," says Ulla.

The courses are used not just for learning, but as an opportunity for dialogue and reflection: "As a leader, I get the chance to show that I am present – and employees say that through the courses, they actually sense my values in practice. It creates a different kind of connection."

A place to empty the glass

Several employees took the initiative to introduce the “Fiskerbænken” method – a concrete space where one can step back, reflect, regain composure, and “empty the glass” before it overflows. You can read more about the Fiskerbænken method at the end of the newsletter.

The courses have been conducted in different ways – both in local groups and across departments.

"It has strengthened our ability to collaborate flexibly – for example during rotations or when there’s a need for variety. And most importantly: It has given us a deeper understanding of one another."

This fall, they will begin the foundational course in Psychological First Aid: "Everyone will participate – so that we can have discussions about both how we support each other, and why it can be difficult to accept support," says Ulla.