Amended Motion 41
Compassionate Leadership Within NHS Scotland
“That this Congress recognises the critical role of NHS Scotland in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our population. Yet, the pressures faced by NHS staff across all disciplines have reached unprecedented levels, driven by workforce shortages, escalating demand, and constrained resources.
“To address these challenges, Congress calls for the widespread adoption and promotion of compassionate leadership across NHS Scotland. Compassionate leadership fosters a workplace culture that prioritises understanding, respect, and mutual support. Evidence demonstrates that such approaches improve staff wellbeing, enhance retention, and lead to better patient outcomes.
“This Congress asserts that compassionate leadership is both a moral imperative and a strategic necessity to alleviate burnout and workforce instability. By encouraging active listening, inclusivity in decision-making, and supportive mechanisms for professional growth, NHS leaders can empower teams to deliver high-quality care in increasingly demanding circumstances.
“Compassionate leadership is essential to, retain all healthcare workers, reducing absenteeism, and improving the morale and resilience of the NHS workforce.
“Congress commits to campaigning for this transformational approach to ensure all NHS staff can thrive in their roles and continue delivering world-class care to the people of Scotland.
“Congress urges the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland to:
- invest in leadership training programs that focus on compassion, tailored to the diverse needs of all healthcare workers;
- establish measurable targets for compassionate leadership practices, embedding them as key performance indicators across NHS Scotland; and
- provide funding and resources to ensure NHS teams have access to supportive supervision, professional development opportunities, and adequate staffing levels.”
Mover: Royal College of Podiatry
Seconder: British Dietetic Association