Crisis Communications & Political Awareness

What is Crisis Communications?

Crisis communications is the art and science of managing information and reputation during challenging or unexpected events. It’s about responding quickly, honestly, and empathetically to protect your organisation’s reputation, reassure stakeholders, and maintain trust. Whether it’s a service disruption, negative media attention, or a rapidly evolving situation, effective crisis communications can make the difference between escalation and resolution.

My Approach to Crisis Communications

Drawing on years of experience in public sector communications, I have developed and implemented robust crisis communications plans for organisations under intense scrutiny. My approach is rooted in:

• Openness and Transparency: Responding with honesty and clarity, even when the full picture isn’t yet known.
• Empathy: Acknowledging concerns and showing genuine care for those affected.
• Speed: Acting quickly to provide accurate information and prevent misinformation from spreading.
• Consistency: Ensuring all messaging is aligned across channels and stakeholders.

Real-World Experience

• CORMAC: Developed and delivered a crisis communications plan, transforming the approach from defensive to open and transparent. Managed social media during high-profile incidents, coordinated with Cornwall Council for official statements, and trained colleagues in best practice response.
• Growth Hub: Led proactive media relations, creating positive stories and managing digital channels to ensure rapid, coordinated responses during challenging periods.

Political Awareness in Communications

Political awareness is essential for anyone communicating on behalf of an organisation, especially in the public sector or when working with politically sensitive projects.

My Experience

• Neutrality and Compliance: Maintained political neutrality during the Brexit and Covid-19 period while ensuring clear, non-partisan information for businesses and residents.
• Managing Sensitive Issues: Acted as the public voice for CORMAC, responding diplomatically to public and political scrutiny, and working closely with Cornwall Council to address politically sensitive topics.
• Supporting Leaders: Provided communications support to senior leaders, ensuring messaging was aligned, compliant, and sensitive to the wider political context.

Best Practice Tips

• Respond quickly and with empathy. Delays or robotic responses can damage trust.
• Align internally. Make sure all key stakeholders are briefed and speak with one voice.
• Be transparent and honest. Share what you know, admit what you don’t, and avoid jargon.
• Maintain neutrality. Especially in politically sensitive contexts, stick to the facts and avoid taking sides.
• Review and learn. After any crisis, evaluate what worked and what could be improved for next time.