Leading with compassion: supporting teams through life’s most challenging moments

In July 2025, the REAL. Leadership team had the privilege of attending the Hospice UK Fundraising Leaders Conference, where our very own Steve led a powerful discussion on Resilient Leadership.

It was at this inspiring event that we met Kathryn Brennan, Deputy Director of Income Generation at Hospice UK. In the post below, Kathryn shares her thoughtful insights on leading with compassion, and why, during times of grief, illness, or major life changes, compassionate leadership is more important than ever.

In every workplace, behind every role and responsibility, there's someone navigating the complexities of life. As leaders, we are not only responsible for performance and productivity, but we are also in a unique position to support our teams through some of life's most difficult and defining moments.

Whether it's a terminal diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, or the ongoing demands of caring for someone at home, these experiences don't stop at work. That's why leading with compassion isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a necessity.

What is Compassionate Leadership?

Compassionate leadership is about more than empathy. It's recognising when someone is struggling and taking meaningful steps to support them.

At Hospice UK, through our Compassionate Employers programme, we describe this as "meeting people where they are, with humanity and humility."

This approach creates trust, loyalty and resilience, which is essential for a healthy and high-performing workplace.

Why it matters

Significant life events can have a profound impact on an employee's wellbeing, focus and ability to engage at work.

76% of employees say personal challenges affect their performance, yet only 38% feel comfortable speaking to their manager about what they're going through.

When someone is facing bereavement, a serious illness, or the pressures of being a caregiver, they may feel isolated or overwhelmed. Without the right support, this can lead to burnout, disengagement or even leaving the workforce altogether.

By leading with compassion, managers can help reduce this burden and create a culture where people feel seen, supported and valued.

The challenge

Today, the line between home and work is blurred. People want flexibility to manage their life and work commitments alongside each other.

Despite this, for many leaders, being vulnerable at work doesn't come naturally. We've often been shaped by environments where emotions were seen as unprofessional and personal struggles were left at the door. But life doesn't stop when we start work.

Whether it's grief, mental health, fertility struggles or caring responsibilities, these moments matter. And as managers, we're often the first point of contact. Knowing how to respond with empathy and confidence can make all the difference. Someone will remember how they were treated in this moment.

We need to have the confidence as leaders to respond with empathy and compassion, even if we don't have the personal experience.

 Practical ways to support your team

Here are some suggestions to help you to become a compassionate leader:

Create a safe space for conversation

Encourage open communication by letting your team know it's okay to talk about what they're going through. Approach conversations with empathy, listen without judgment and respect their privacy.

Be flexible and adaptable

Offer flexible working arrangements where possible. Whether that's remote work, adjusted hours, or extended leave. Small accommodations can have a big impact.

Know your resources

Familiarise yourself with your organisation's policies on compassionate leave, employee assistance programmes and mental health support. Signpost these resources clearly and proactively.

Lead by example

Model compassionate behaviour in your own leadership style. Show vulnerability, acknowledge challenges and prioritise wellbeing for yourself and your team.

Stay connected

Support doesn't end after the initial conversation. Check in regularly, offer continued flexibility and know that needs can change when people are on a journey.

 Building confidence in difficult conversations

One of the biggest barriers to compassionate leadership is fear. Fear of saying the wrong thing, of overstepping, or of not knowing how to help. But silence can be more harmful than imperfection.

With the right training and support, leaders can build the confidence to navigate sensitive conversations with care and professionalism. It's not about having all the answers.

 Final thoughts

Leading with compassion isn't a one-time act. It's a mindset. It's about recognising that life happens to all of us, and that the workplace can be a source of strength rather than stress during those times.

By embracing compassionate leadership, we not only support individuals, we strengthen our teams, our culture and our organisations as a whole.

Kathryn Brennan, Deputy Director of Income Generation at Hospice UK.

Hospice care eases the physical and emotional pain of death and dying. Letting people focus on living, right until the end.

But too many people miss out on this essential care. Hospice UK fights for hospice care for all who need it, for now and forever.

Compassionate Employers is a workplace wellbeing programme delivered by Hospice UK. Compassionate Employers supports over 165,000 employees across some of the UK's leading workplaces. The programme is designed to equip managers and organisations with the tools they need to lead with empathy and create truly supportive environments.

If you'd like to learn more about Compassionate Employers contact us at compassionateemployers@hospiceuk.org we'd love to hear from you.

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