A qualitative study exploring senior nurses’ understanding of compassionate leadership in community healthcare

Background:Developing compassionate leadership is a priority since high profile failings in older people care have come to light. Little is known regarding how compassionate leadership is perceived in community healthcare organisations. Aim:The aim was to understand how leaders and senior staff within a Community NHS Trust perceive compassionate leadership and its importance. Method:This qualitative study employed semi-structured, audio-recorded interviews analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Sample:Purposive sampling was used to recruit nursing leaders (n=11) within one Community NHS Trust. Findings:Leading and caring with compassion are particularly important in the community. Compassionate leadership involves role modelling, person-centred care and compassion towards staff not just patients. A concept of 'gritty compassion' was identified which could lead to a loss of compassion. Conclusion:Community organisations need compassionate leaders who lead with their heads and their hearts and ensure that patients, clients and families feel cared for not merely treated