University of Huddersfield launches Compassionate Leadership Hub at NHIC
The University of Huddersfield is proud to announce the launch of its new Compassionate Leadership Hub, located at the University’s National Health Innovation Campus, a centre devoted to advancing innovation, equity, and healthier communities.
This new hub builds on the University’s pilot programme in compassionate leadership, co-delivered with the US-based Center for Compassionate Leadership (CFCL), with further training scheduled for November. The hub will feature workshop spaces, electronic displays, and gathering areas for alumni, staff, and local businesses.
Why compassion matters:
- Compassionate leadership has been shown to increase staff engagement and wellbeing, improving care quality and organisational performance across health and care systems.
- In post-pandemic health services, like ours in West Yorkshire, experienced leaders report that compassionate approaches help build psychological safety, staff retention, and support in managing complex challenges.
- It is not a "soft skill" - compassion is a critical leadership capability that delivers better outcomes for staff, patients, and organisations.
The programmes will be delivered by Helen Curtis, founder of Vintis, and Dr Nic Stenberg, Director of Executive Education in the School of Business, Education and Law. They co-designed and delivered the pilot programme earlier this year based on CFCL training. Together, they bring deep expertise in compassionate leadership practice, training, and research translation.
Liz Towns-Andrews, Head of Regional Business Engagement, Huddersfield National Health Innovation Campus, said: “Locating the Compassionate Leadership Hub at our new National Health Innovation Campus reflects our commitment to living our values, not just stating them. Compassion isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s foundational to healthier workplaces, and ultimately, healthier communities.”
Evan Harrel, Chief Operating Officer of the Center for Compassionate Leadership, added: “The University's new Compassionate Leadership Hub creates an important opportunity for advancing compassionate approaches to leadership. By serving organisations locally and beyond, this pioneering initiative will strengthen workplaces, drive innovation, foster wellbeing, and establish a model with the potential for transformational international impact.”
The Compassion Hub will host regular training sessions, alumni forums, and an annual Compassion in Leadership Forum. Creating a visible, active space for practicing and promoting compassionate leadership in our region.