A critical analysis of Compassion in Practice

Compassion in Practice is a policy introduced in England to develop a culture of compassionate practice among healthcare staff. There is widespread recognition and agreement of the importance of compassionate practice, and the policy offers a vision underpinned by a desirable set of values. In this article, the significance of a coherent vision is explored and is followed by discussion of the need to anchor the policy vision in values that are important to healthcare staff. The policy’s approach to vision and values may generate tensions, which are also examined and discussed.