St Catherine's Education Department is pleased to be hosting and facilitating this national programme.

Following the Department of Health Cancer Plan (2000) a 3 day experiential model of communication skills training has been developed and this continues to be seen as the most effective means of improving communication skills (NICE: Supportive and Palliative Care Cancer Service Guidance, 2004; the End of Life Strategy, 2008).   Attendance on this course also meets peer review criteria for the Cancer Multi Disciplinary Team.

The 3 day course provides a safe space where participants can identify difficult communication situations in their clinical work and practice key skills to address these.  Participants undertake a role play which is video-taped; and clear, constructive feedback is given on skills used, which is integral to learning.  Safety for all participants is maintained by agreeing a clear set of ground rules and a central part of the facilitator’s role is to ensure a supportive environment at all times.

This 3 day course:

• Highlights the need for effective communication
• Reviews the evidence for communication skills training
• Is based on a participant-centered agenda
• Involves experiential learning through role play
• Is supported by an evidence-based handbook detailing communication skills and strategies

This course is attended by senior healthcare professionals employed at Band 6 or above who are involved in cancer and end of life care.

Courses will take place at St Catherine's Education and Training Centre on 19th~21st May, 14th~16th July, 22nd~24th September 2010.  Other dates will become available later in the year. 

The course is currently free as it is funded by the Department of Health through the National Cancer Action Team.  To reserve a place, please contact your local Cancer Network administrator.