Compassionate coaching

The Compassionate Coaching Leadership Programme is designed for those in senior leadership roles across primary care organisations, places and systems.

Recent cohorts have shared the significant impact the programme has had on both their personal and professional lives.

“I have really enjoyed this short but useful course; the skills learned have impacted on my personal life as well as my performance as a leader within the NHS.”

The eight-week programme provides senior leaders with the opportunity to work closely with a Chartered Occupational Psychologist to explore self-compassion and understand how it can translate into more compassionate leadership.

The programme has proved highly popular, with one participant sharing:

“I honestly feel this has changed my perspective on life and made me happier and more at peace. And it was unexpected – like a gift.”

Delivered through a combination of four small-group coaching sessions and five training webinars, the programme offers a balance of theory and practical application.. A former participant stated:

“I thought the provider was great as a facilitator and teacher. I also really enjoyed the variety of workshops, webinars and exercises. One of the best courses I have done”

With increasing pressures across the NHS and primary care, the programme’s focus on compassion is particularly relevant. Participants highlighted its value in helping them manage stressful and challenging situations while maintaining a compassionate approach towards both themselves and their colleagues, reducing the risk of burnout.

Throughout the programme, participants are provided with real, actionable steps they can use to implement their teachings.

“I have learnt a lot of important techniques to improve self-kindness. One technique that will always stay with me is to see myself as separate, like in third person. This makes it easier for me to be kind to myself”.

The programme also allows participants the time and space needed to acknowledge and respond to their own need for compassion, with one participant stating:

“I can see that I am a better leader – I listen more, but more importantly I take time for myself and I do not berate myself the way I used to”.

In addition, participants are also encouraged to reflect on their own beliefs and feelings around leadership.

“It’s been hugely influential in my role and my approach as a leader. I feel my mindset has shifted in a really positive way. I find I have more compassion towards myself which has in turn means I feel more comfortable showing my vulnerabilities and being more open for others to approach me and have conversations.”

The programme also focuses on how self-compassion can positively influence how we lead our teams too, with participants reflecting on the impact it has had on their leadership role.

“I have learnt to recognise when my team are in need of some compassion, and I am able to provide this through having compassionate conversations”.

Another particularly notable impact has been the ability for leaders to:

“Recognise when others are struggling and to show compassion rather than judge them harshly for not performing“

Similarly, participants have the opportunity to engage more fully and influence colleagues in their delivery of compassionate care to both patients and local communities and neighbourhoods.

If you would like to keep up to date with opportunities for Primary Care colleagues, visit the primary care website page.