New research has revealed a concerning trend among UK employees, with over 40% admitting to not contributing their full potential at work. This phenomenon, known as “Talent Hushing”, is being highlighted by Psychological Safety Week, which returns from 21-25 September, 2026.
Hosted by business psychologists Pearn Kandola, the international initiative aims to bring awareness to the hidden cost of silence in the workplace. This year, Personnel Today has joined as the headline sponsor, along with several new and returning sponsors.
While workplace discussions have focused on burnout, engagement, and retention, Psychological Safety Week 2026 is turning attention to a lesser-known problem with serious consequences: employees censoring themselves because they do not feel safe or valued to speak up. Coined as “Talent Hushing” by Pearn Kandola, this issue was officially launched yesterday with a keynote address by Professor Binna Kandola OBE, co-founder and senior partner at Pearn Kandola.
According to Professor Kandola, “After an astonishing inaugural year, we are delighted to be back for Psychological Safety Week 2026, supported by our wonderful sponsors who help bring this event to the wider world. This year’s theme, Talent Hushing, highlights the organizational risks and missed opportunities when those with the best ideas feel they will not be heard or that it’s simply safer to stay quiet.”
Research conducted by Pearn Kandola in July revealed that 43% of UK adults contribute less than they are capable of due to their experiences at work. This alarming statistic demonstrates the potential impact of Talent Hushing on national productivity.
Running from 21-25 September 2026, Psychological Safety Week will offer free live webinars, practical resources, and expert insights to help organizations understand the conditions that determine whether people speak up or remain silent.
In a time of economic pressure, rapid change, and rising workplace complexity, organizations increasingly rely on employees to raise concerns, challenge assumptions, and offer new ideas. However, if people do not feel their voice will be welcomed or make a difference, they may choose to stay quiet.
Psychological Safety Week 2026 aims to help employers recognize the patterns and dynamics that lead to Talent Hushing and instead build cultures where people feel safe to contribute, challenge, and collaborate.
Interested individuals and organizations can register for free at psychologicalsafetyweek.com. The event is open to all who are committed to creating high-performing, inclusive, and innovative workplaces.
Psychological Safety Week 2026 is backed by leading organizations, such as Personnel Today and global organizations, demonstrating the growing recognition across sectors that psychological safety is a crucial factor for performance, trust, and inclusion. A full list of sponsors can be found on the event’s website.
