Fundamentals of Risk Management

Risk culture
320
TAbLE 
26.2
Risk communication guidelines
Know the stakeholders, by identifying both external and internal stakeholders and 
finding out their interests and concerns
Simplify the language and presentation, although not the content if complex issues 
need to be communicated
Be objective in the information provided and differentiate between opinions and 
facts
Communicate clearly and honestly, taking account of the level of understanding of 
the audience
Deal with uncertainty and discuss situations where not all information is available 
and indicate what can be done to overcome these problems
Be cautious when putting risks in perspective, although comparing an unfamiliar risk 
with a familiar one can be helpful
Develop key messages that are clear, concise and to the point, with no more than 
three messages communicated at any one time
Be prepared to answer questions and agree to provide further information if it is not 
currently available
The provision of risk training should be aligned with other training activities within 
the organization. As with all other types of training, the content of the training must 
be consistent with the requirements of the job. Training on risk matters will be required 
in a number of circumstances, including when new risks have appeared or existing 
risks have changed significantly. Training will also be required when an individual 
takes a new job or assumes additional responsibilities. Also, risk training will be 
important after an incident has occurred and new or enhanced procedures are 
introduced.
An important part of risk information and communication is ensuring that there 
are adequate arrangements in place for ‘whistleblowers’. Although members of staff 
and other individuals may collect confidential information about an organization 
that would not normally be disclosed, there need to be arrangements in place for 
staff and other stakeholders to raise concerns, if they have reasonable grounds for 
believing there has been serious malpractice. The text box below provides an extract 
from the University of Cambridge whistleblowing policy.

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