A senior NHS leader has described Treetops Hospice’s Advanced Communication Skills Training (ACST) as “transformative”, crediting the programme with improving both clinical conversations and high level strategic decision-making across one of the region’s largest hospital trusts.
Duncan Cameron, Head of Strategic Planning at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, 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 says the training has had a profound and lasting impact. “All of the valuable skills I learnt 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.
“It takes you out of your comfort zone in a way that feels completely safe and supportive, and the learnings genuinely stick with you.”
A key component of the training focuses on recognising cues, micro skills and facilitative behaviours, giving participants a practical toolkit of principles they can apply immediately. For Duncan, these skills have proved invaluable not only in clinical settings but also in strategic planning, organisational change and team leadership across the Trust.
“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 says demand for high quality communication training continues to grow. The ACST programme is designed to strengthen resilience, improve patient experience and support healthier workplace cultures – all key priorities for healthcare organisations.
To find out more about Treetops’ education and training services, visit:
https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/care/for-professionals/education-and-development/
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Photo Caption: Duncan Cameron, Head of Strategic Planning at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust
About Treetops Hospice
Treetops Hospice is a leading end-of-life care charity in Derbyshire, for adults with life-limiting conditions, people who have been bereaved, and their families.
The charity offers support from the point of diagnosis onwards for patients living with conditions such as cancer, motor neurone disease and heart and respiratory illnesses.
Last year, the Treetops nursing team supported over 2,000 patients, with over 34,000 hours of end-of-life care delivered.
The bereavement counselling team provided more than 5,000 hours of sessions – including over 1,500 for children and young people. The Wellbeing team also offers vital information, guidance, and emotional support to those who need it most.
A donation of £34.50 helps provide a counselling session for a bereaved child. A donation of £108 helps provide nursing care through the night for a patient at the end of life.
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