What are compassionate conversations?

Compassionate Conversations are interactions between healthcare providers and patients that are empathetic, understanding and supportive. These conversations go beyond just delivering medical information; they involve actively listening to the patient, acknowledging their emotions, concerns and fears, and responding with care and respect. The goal is to create a sense of trust and emotional connection, ensuring patients feel valued and understood, especially during challenging times. Compassionate communication can improve the patient's overall experience, promote better outcomes, and strengthen the therapeutic relationship.

About this programme

Study this online programme to understand the guiding principles of holding compassionate conversations, to evaluate own practice and support others to hold compassionate conversations.

The programme consists of 3 days of taught online sessions plus additional self-directed learning and an assessment. Successful completion of the unit will gain you 4 credits at Level 3, accredited by Agored Cymru.

Learning outcomes

• Understand compassionate conversations
• Know how to adopt compassionate conversations in own role
• Be able to hold compassionate conversations
• Be able to support others to hold compassionate conversations.

For more information about the unit see: Agored Cymru Compassionate Conversations Unit description

Who is this programme suitable for?

This programme is open to staff across health and social care working in any sector.

This programme is open to both RCN members and non-members. NMC registration is not a requirement of enrolment on this programme. 

On successful completion of the programme you will gain 4 credits at Level 3. 

Technoloy access: 

Mode of delivery

This unit will be delivered online, over three days, one day per week for three weeks, on the following dates:

• Day 1 - Wednesday 17 September 2025, 9.15am - 4.15pm
• Day 2 - Wednesday 24 September 2025, 9.15am - 4.15pm
• Day 3 - Wednesday 1 October 2025, 9.15am - 4.15pm

There will also be additional self-directed learning and an assessment. There is 40 hours learning time for this unit in total.

Assessment: 

The assessment will be a reflective log to include three compassionate conversations that have taken place. 

Cost:

£250 + VAT per person (£300 inc. VAT)

How to book

Bookings are open for the September 2025 programme.

Book online now: Compassionate Conversations unit booking page