As part of Quality and Learning at Work Week, colleagues came together for a keynote session exploring the importance of excellent leadership – and the difference strong, compassionate leadership makes, particularly during times of pressure and change.
Jacqui Jones, Director of Human Resources & Deputy Chief Executive, chaired the session, interviewing Chair Katharina Kasper and Chief Executive Louise Long.
They shared insights on what it means to lead well in NHS Lanarkshire, and how everyday behaviours, clarity of purpose and kindness all play a vital role in supporting staff and delivering high‑quality care.
One of the questions put to the panel focused on what leaders in NHS Lanarkshire should do differently or more deliberately to truly live our values, particularly during times of pressure or change.
Katharina said: “Leadership starts with clarity of purpose and shared values. You need to understand your strategy, where you are now, and where you want to be.”
She emphasised that how leaders behave day‑to‑day is just as important as strategic direction, adding: “The ‘how you do it’ is incredibly important, especially when things are pressured.”
Louise spoke about kindness as a core leadership behaviour – not as a soft option, but as a strength.
She explained: “Kindness isn’t about just being nice. It’s about being honest, even when conversations are difficult.
“I want NHS Lanarkshire to be warm and welcoming – a place where we genuinely support each other. We can’t focus on the negatives all the time. We need to recognise what’s going well and put a spotlight on that.”
Returning to the theme of compassionate leadership, Katharina said: “It means setting clear expectations. Leaders must be role models in how they behave every day.”
The session reinforced that excellent leadership in NHS Lanarkshire is grounded not just in strategy and structure, but in clarity, compassion and everyday behaviour.
It was stressed that living our values consistently – especially when pressures are high – enables leaders at all levels to help create a supportive culture where staff feel supported to do their best work.
