26 hospitals in Flanders and Brussels launched the #SeeEachOther campaign on Wednesday, aiming to tackle aggression in the workplace.
Under the slogan "Your smile does good", the campaign urges patients, visitors, staff and doctors alike to show zero tolerance towards aggression.
Recent survey findings indicated that aggression is on the rise in the hospitals included in the initiative. 85.4% of respondents said yes when asked "Have you or a colleague ever experienced aggressive behaviour?" Around 79% indicate that workplace aggression occurs even more frequently.
"Aggression in hospitals should not be considered normal," hospital workers have since stated. "No matter how high tensions rise, aggression is never the right answer." It is hoped the campaign will help everyone to feel seen.
Focus on positives
However, hospital messaging consciously focuses on positive responses to aggression rather than the issue itself. The campaign concentrates on a smile as a disarming force in difficult situations.
"The strength of this initiative lies in encouraging positive and desirable behaviour," say the participating hospitals. "We already put significant effort into policies and training related to aggression. The campaign aligns well with this broader approach."
The #SeeEachOther campaign targets everyone who visits or works in the hospital. Using relatable scenarios on banners, video screens and posters, hospitals encourage people to look out for each other and share a comforting smile, even in stressful situations or when tensions are high.
