Compassionate Communications in Higher Education

Remit:

Compassionate Communication sets out principles for higher education providers in England through the work of the Higher Education Mental Health Implementation Taskforce, though it is hoped that they will also inspire change in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It has been developed by the Higher Education Mental Health Implementation Taskforce, drawing on existing practice within UK higher education and beyond, and on expertise from HE professionals, specialists, and students themselves, and is now owned and will be periodically reviewed by the Academic Registrars’ Council (ARC).

Further reading

Compassionate Communication Statement
Higher Education Student Support Champion | Nottingham Trent University
Compassionate Communication case studies | Nottingham Trent University

The five commitments for compassionate communication:

1. We commit to adopting a culture of kindness and incorporating it into the student facing policies, processes and communications

2. We commit to mindful communications which are clear empathetic action focused and supportive

3. We commit to timely communications ensuring that careful consideration has been given both delivery and timings enabling students to access advice and support when they most need it

4. We commit to inclusivity by actively identifying and addressing barriers to engagement as well as carefully considering the impact of processes and communications on all student groups

5. We commit to the principle of reflection and continuous improvement by dedicating time to review challenges and successes in delivering student facing policies processes and communications with compassion and empathy