Advanced Communications Skills Training

What is ACST and who is it for?

This course is based on the Connected training course. Originally designed for healthcare practitioners working with people with cancer, this course suits all healthcare professionals in challenging communication situations.

This two-day course allows participants to practise their communication skills in a safe and supportive environment and receive feedback on how they could adapt their communication in future. The course has been internationally audited and is one of the few communications courses with clear evidence of changing practice over time.

Using a blended learning approach, the focus is on identifying complex communication issues, handling anger and distress, exploring the impact on people and their families, reflecting on their communication skills and developing these in a safe and supportive environment.

Through discussions, exercises, and roleplay with experienced actors, this course allows delegates to develop, practice, and consolidate their clinical communication skills.

Key topics

• Update and refresh evidence-based skills and principles for effective communication

• Discuss challenges such as breaking bad news, advance care planning, handling anger or distress, difficult conversations with colleagues

• Practice essential skills and principles, receive constructive feedback, and test out alternative strategies

• Take away communication strategies that can be transferred to any interpersonal or professional context

This course is suitable for senior health and social care professionals – (Band 6 NHS Equivalent or above)

Testimonials from course participants

“I was very nervous about the role play and video recording but it was one of the most beneficial things I have ever experienced professionally.”

“One of the best courses I have attended. I learned a lot from the “role-playing”. Excellent course. I definitely recommend this to others. Thank you so much.”

“This was honestly the most helpful, enjoyable education course I have been on my whole career. The facilitators and actors were fantastic! Thank you so, so much!”

Cost: £575 per person

Venue: Ann Robertson Centre, 55 London Road, Canterbury, CT2 8HQ

Timing:  9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Dates for 2025 to be released

To request a place on this course or to find out more, please call the team on 01227 812 616 or email [email protected]