Case Study: Nottingham University Hospital (NUH)

NUH identified a need for greater skills and support for clinical staff when they took on Heads of Service or other leadership positions in the trust. It was clear that doctors taking on these roles had a wealth of interest and enthusiasm, and a desire to do things differently to achieve great care. What was lacking were skills in improvement and change, performance management, finance and strategy.

The trust wanted a programme that would fit around clinical commitments, that was grounded in the context of their organisation and gave colleagues knowledge and skills not only in their own leadership, but also in an understanding of the healthcare system in which they work.

The programme

Happy conducted a series of interviews with key figures within the trust and talked with current and previous Heads of Service, to ensure the programme met the specific needs of the trust.

The programme included the involvement of key leaders at NUH, including presentations and question sessions from the Chair and Chief Executive. While teaching key leadership skills, it was firmly rooted in the Five Year Forward View and included extensive analysis of some of the most innovative new models of care in use around the world.

The core of the programme was five days of classroom delivery, spread over six months. This was supported by e-learning, an online community and online assessment and feedback tools.

The results of the programme

Every participant stated they would recommend the programme to colleagues. 100% agreed that “I have learnt about myself as a leader” and 67% strongly agreed with that statement. The programme is now to be rolled out further across the trust, delivered by NUH’s own facilitators.

The participants described a range of benefits from the programme:

• “The benefit? Greater cohesion, understanding and shared common vision. A more positive outlook and increased morale.” – Surgical Consultant
• “The programme made me more aware of my role as a leader. Increased my ability to understand my team and bigger picture. In terms of connections: it was a great opportunity to interact with colleagues from different departments which I found helpful. I have learnt a lot more in every session.” – Consultant, Breast Services
• “I have been more confident and stuck to my guns more. Am enjoying the role more as a result.” – Radiology Consultant, Clinical Lead
• “I gained insight into the effect of leaders and personality types of those you are trying to manage.” – Consultant, Head of Service, HCOP (Healthcare of the Older Person)
• “I think that the most valuable part of the whole programme was the opportunity to sit with other clinical leaders and share the common frustrations and challenges in a unpressured environment, some great conversations and reflections, made me realise we are all in the same boat.” – Lead Consultant, Cleft Lip and Palate service
• “As a result of the programme I have had more difficult conversations than I ever thought possible! It isn’t the same as other leadership courses. It is worth it.” – Advanced Nurse Practioner, Head of Service Emergency Department
• “I fully support and am actively marketing the programme having had three of my team attend / currently attending.” – Interim Director, Hospital Improvement Programme
• “I am a more relaxed leader, more confident. Just do it!” – Head of Breast Services