Challenging conversations - improving your communication skills

Communication Guides

Vital Talk is a highly respected resource from the US, pioneered by Dr Anthony Back.

These Quick Guides from Vital Talk are from the US, but the principles and guidance are universal and have been recommended as key resources in the UK.

They cover topics such as breaking serious news, discussing prognosis, breaking bad news and responding to conflict and emotions.

What Matters Conversations

A group of leading UK palliative clinicians and GPs have produced an excellent 10 minute video highlighting 'what matters' conversations

Difficult Conversations

Difficult Conversations is a training programme endorsed by The General Medical Council.

This article shares 10 top tips regarding difficult conversations – shared by Dr Catherine Millington-Sanders.

Resuscitation Discussions

Many of our difficult conversations relate to our obligation to discuss resuscitation decisions with patients. Talk CPR, a Welsh resource developed by Professor Mark Taubert, provides brief excellent video examples of these vital discussions.

Recommended Resources

What matters conversations

Published 1st January 2021

Vital Talk

Published 9th December 2020

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