Improving leadership in the NHS

Supporting you and your teams in the challenging NHS environment

If you're a senior leader in the NHS, you don’t need me to tell you how challenging it is.

I’ve been there myself, and I know that there’s no shortage of pressure, long hours, or feeling like you’re juggling a million things at once.

From staffing issues to burnout, navigating constant changes and restructuring, it can sometimes feel like you're stuck on a hamster wheel.

But what if you didn’t have to go it alone?

What if, instead of running yourself ragged, you could lead with confidence, clarity, and dare I say it, impact?

Why leadership in the NHS needs to be reworked

I’ve spent my whole career working with NHS teams, from frontline staff to senior leaders, and here's the thing I’ve noticed: NHS leaders, especially women, often feel isolated.

It's like they’re carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, with not enough support or resources to make real change.

But here's the kicker: you can lead in a way that makes the difference you want to make. Not just for your patients, but for your team and your own well-being.

When I started my career as a nurse, I never imagined I’d be doing NHS Leadership Coaching & Mentoring, but here we are.

Over the years, I’ve seen what works, (and what doesn’t) when it comes to leading in the NHS.  

So, here are the things that have helped me over the years.

1. Invest in leadership development (for yourself and your team)

Leadership isn’t static. It’s an ongoing process. You can’t be the leader your team needs if you're constantly running on empty, or if you haven’t learned how to navigate the latest challenges.

Make it a priority to invest in your growth (yes, even as a senior leader) and give your team the chance to do the same. It’s a game changer.

Coaching and training doesn’t just improve skills, it boosts confidence, improves communication, and helps people feel supported.

2. Be open and honest

Good two-way communication is everything. The last thing you want is to have a team that’s not telling you what’s really going on.

If you’re only hearing the good stuff; dig deeper and find out what’s really happening and that they can speak up without fear of retribution.

In the long run, better communication means less drama and more progress.

I’ve worked with a few senior NHS managers who are completely unaware of the challenges their team were facing because no one felt comfortable voicing their concerns. And you can’t support your team effectively if you don’t know what the problems are.

3. Be clear on what you’re trying to achieve (and everyone’s role in It)

If there’s one thing that can tank a team and create resistance, it’s confusion.

If no one knows what the end goal is, or how they actually contribute to it, it’s a recipe for disaster and frustration.

Get crystal clear on what you're working toward and how everyone fits into the bigger picture.

4. Be collaborative (not competitive)

Teamwork might make the dream work, but only if everyone is actually working together.

Too often, teams within the NHS operate in silos which creates anything BUT collaboration!

Don’t underestimate the power of working together.  

5. Look after your team’s well-being

Your team is your greatest asset, and if they’re burnt out or disengaged, it’s going to affect everything. Take the time to check in with where your team’s well-being is at.

A little appreciation and positive recognition can go a long way.

I once coached a manager who started sending out simple emails acknowledging the positive impact they’d made and saying "thank you for your work today on this project" 

The result? Boosted morale, stronger team bonds, and improved retention.

Never underestimate the power of gratitude.

Want to level up your leadership?

I’ve seen how small changes in leadership can create massive ripples. When senior female leaders in the NHS take a step back to re-evaluate their leadership style and progress, they can transform not only their own careers, but also the teams and projects they lead.

If you’re ready to step into your next level of leadership and lead with confidence and clarity, I’m here to help.

I’ve designed an NHS Leadership Transformation Programme specifically for NHS leaders who want to transform their leadership style, boost team morale, and lead with impact. It’s tailored to your unique challenges and goals, so you can see results that matter.

Both for you and your team.

"Jackie worked for our Trust providing both 121 executive coaching for members of the management team and team building sessions for cross-departmental leaders.

I could not recommend Jackie highly enough. Her sessions brought great insight and strengthened team bonds which saw operational benefits.

Her coaching has allowed managers to grow internally, develop new skills and become the best version of themselves"

Liam Mahon: NHS Director of Digital & Innovation

Final Thoughts

Leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room or pushing through at all costs.

It’s about leading with clarity, compassion, and a focus on what really matters: your team, your patients, and your well-being.

If you’re a senior female leader in the NHS who feels you and your team need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Jackie