Advanced Communications Skills Training

Saint Catherine's Hospice is running its Advanced Communications Skills training over several dates through 2026 and 2027, with sessions held at the Saint Catherine's Education Centre in Scarborough. It's aimed at clinical staff in patient-facing roles, Band 6 or above, and focuses on developing and adapting communication practice so it has a lasting and meaningful impact in professional settings.

The sessions cover some of the toughest parts of the job: breaking bad news, advance care planning, handling anger or distress, and navigating difficult conversations with colleagues. It's not just theory, either — you'll practise key communication skills and principles, get constructive feedback, and explore alternative approaches in a safe, supportive environment. The idea is that you walk away with practical strategies you can use in any interpersonal or professional context, not just the ones you've practised in the room.

There are six dates to choose from, and they're spread out so you can pick what fits your schedule. The first is Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October 2026, from 9am to 4pm. Then there's Thursday 3 and Friday 4 December 2026, from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Moving into 2027, you've got Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 February, from 8:30am to 4:30pm; Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 May, from 8:30am to 4:30pm; Thursday 21 and Friday 22 October, from 8:30am to 4:30pm; and finally Thursday 9 and Friday 10 December, from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Each session runs over two days, and the cost is £440 per person. All of them are held at the Saint Catherine's Education Centre, part of the hospice in Scarborough.