Action with integrity
People-focused crisis response for organisations.
Following a crisis, it is not narrative that protects reputation, but action. We work alongside you to ensure your actions show accountability and integrity.
Our guiding principle is simple:
Prioritise the needs of those affected. Experience tells us that when we get it right for those who have been harmed, we get it right for the organisation and its people too.
who we work with
We work alongside private and public sector organisations in the UK and around the world, including complex, high-risk and conflict-affected environments. We also partner with PR agencies and crisis management teams to establish a people-focused framework for crisis response.
Our work spans situations including death, serious injury, psychological harm, sexual violence, arbitrary detention and hostage-taking.
Organisations come to us at different stages of a crisis. An incident may have just occurred or be ongoing. You may need immediate guidance, longer-term support, or both. What unites our clients is recognition that how they respond to those involved matters.
What we do
We know that crises affect not only those directly harmed, but also the wider organisation and its members. We work with the individuals involved, the relationships at stake and the organisation’s policies and procedures. The result is a response which is effective in the moment and strengthens trust, culture and credibility in the long-term.
We help you to:
Plan and guide your crisis response
Engage with those harmed
Ensure access to psychological support
Rebuild trust through restorative dialogue
Understand and account for the experiences and needs of everyone involved
Create space for reflection, learning and recovery
Build capability and preparedness for future crises
Who we are
Crisis ReAction is led by Dr Nicola Lester, who brings expertise in psychological trauma and complex crisis intervention. Nicola is supported by a trusted network of experts in fields including law, crisis communication, operations and human resources, each ensuring our approach is grounded in best practice.
We recognise the overwhelm and disorientation that organisations face during a crisis. Our support helps you to respond with confidence and clarity, always anchored in what matters most; prioritising people and what they need.
What we valued most was Nicola’s ability to see the entire picture while still attending to the most granular details. Any organisation facing a complex crisis would be fortunate to have her by their side.
arbitrary detention case
we know
Engaging with those who have been harmed is complex and can be challenging to sustain through the difficult processes that follow. From initial response through to resolution, we stand alongside you to share this responsibility.