We spent some time with Clare Beesley, Bereavement Midwife, who talks about the importance of being a strong advocate for her service, families and staff. Clare reflects on the value of feedback in developing your service, the vital roles of resilience and reflection in leadership and the power of your team. Clare shares a great initiative she has implemented to support student midwives and equip them with the skills to feel more confident and competent in caring for bereaved families. This episode is a worthwhile watch for anyone looking for ways to make positive changes to their service for their staff, patients and families.
3 Quotes to lead by...
1. BE A STRONG ADVOCATE
‘I think the service has got to what it has today and has the reputation that it does today because of the fact that I have been a really strong advocate. I have sometimes pushed myself outside my comfort zone to advocate to other people why it is we need a service, why it is that families need this and make sure that they understand why these things are so important.’
Q. Can you think of some examples where you have advocated for your service, patients or staff? What outcomes resulted from this?
2. REFLECT. A LOT
‘I reflect a lot. On my journey home after my day at work, I don’t have my music on. I sit and process the day, and I think as a team, I encourage that reflection… We always have a little huddle, a little chat together about what is happening, and I think that really helps in our reflection and processing what we’ve all experienced that day because this role is very intense and very emotive.’
Q. How do you encourage reflection with your team? What do you do to help you process what you’ve experienced during your working day?
3. YOU’RE ONLY AS STRONG AS YOUR TEAM
‘You’re only as strong as your team, so encourage them, develop them, share your knowledge, share your experience and learn along with them.’
Q. Are you creating a positive learning environment for your team that enables them to share their knowledge and experiences?
External Resources
3 Ways Leaders Can Become Outstanding Advocates for Their Team
Win your life by harnessing The Power Of Reflection
Universal truth: You’re only as good as your team
