Why you should read this article:

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To reflect on the importance of compassionate communication in cancer care

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To recognise that there is a gap in the provision of communication skills training for healthcare professionals

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To read about the development and evaluation of a compassionate communication skills training course for nurses and other staff working in cancer services

People who receive treatment for cancer value empathic, compassionate communication from healthcare professionals, however there is a gap in the provision of communication skills training. To address this gap, a blended communication skills training course has been developed to support nurses and allied health professionals working in cancer care in southeast London to become more adept at communicating compassionately with patients and families. The Compassionate Communication in Cancer Care course (4Cs course) encompasses online learning modules on the principles of compassionate communication and a face-to-face workshop which aims to encourage learners to reflect on how to apply these principles in practice. Evaluation suggests the 4Cs course improves learners’ knowledge and it has received positive feedback. Future work includes longitudinal research to assess the effects of the course on learners’ behaviours and on patients’ experience of care.