NHS leader hails hospice’s ‘transformative’ communication training

A senior NHS leader has praised the standard of communication training given by Treetops Hospice to staff and patients.

Duncan Cameron, head of strategic planning at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, has described the Risley-based hospice’s Advanced Communication Skills Training (ACST) as ‘transformative’.

He credits the programme with improving both clinical conversations and high-level strategic decision-making across one of the region’s largest hospital trusts.

Mr Cameron first completed the CPD-approved course while serving as general manager for Cancer Services.

He enrolled to better understand the emotionally demanding conversations his teams were navigating daily, from supporting distressed patients to handling complaints, sensitive human resources issues and complex treatment discussions.

He said the training has had a profound and lasting impact.

He added: “All of the valuable skills I learned in the course are now used far beyond clinical scenarios. It’s genuinely transformative.”

Treetops’ ACST programme is an experiential, two-day course designed for senior leaders, consultants, SAS doctors, GPs, allied health professionals, nurses, midwives and non-clinical professionals.

It builds confidence in navigating tender conversations with compassion and candour – whether breaking bad news, responding to anger or distress or having important conversations with colleagues.

Duncan describes the course as “fascinating, tangible, impactful and unique”, praising the facilitators for creating a safe environment that encourages participants to stretch their skills while tailoring the experience to their professional needs.

He said: “It takes you out of your comfort zone in a way that feels completely safe and supportive, and the learnings genuinely stick with you.

“I’ve recommended it to so many of my colleagues because I’ve seen how valuable it is, in all aspects of my role and life in general.”

With NHS staff facing increasing pressures, Treetops Hospice said demand for high-quality communication training is growing.

It said the ACST programme is designed to strengthen resilience, improve patient experience and support healthier workplace cultures – all key priorities for healthcare organisations.