Towards a future of gentle academics: policy, practice and patiences

The gentle academic principles have the potential to move academia in a more collaborative, inclusive, caring, and supportive direction. They support the valuing of each individual’s contributions, regardless of their level of experience or title, and the development of moral, socially responsible academics who are aware of the impact of both their work and their way of working. This chapter will explore how academic workplaces can foster these principles through policy and what practical considerations must be made in order to ensure their application. A policy template will be provided as a starting point for workplaces to use and research to support these practical considerations and how change can be best implemented will be reviewed, providing guidance to those seeking to build a gentler academic environment.