The 6Cs in Healthcare

Vocabulary flashcards covering the origin, definitions, real-world barriers, and professional applications of the 6Cs in healthcare.

The 6Cs

A framework of core values and behaviours (Care, Compassion, Competence, Communication, Courage, Commitment) introduced to underpin compassionate, high-quality care and provide a shared value base for health and social care staff.

Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Scandal (2005–2009)

A high-profile healthcare failure involving severe failings in patient care that resulted in an estimated 400 to 1,200 additional deaths, highlighting widespread issues of neglect, lack of dignity, and poor culture.

Francis Report (2013)

The formal public inquiry report into Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust that made over 290 recommendations to improve healthcare leadership, regulation, and culture after finding widespread lack of basic care and compassion.

Compassion in Practice Strategy (2012–2016)

A national strategy launched by NHS England to improve care culture, restore public trust following high-profile care scandals, and officially introduce the 6Cs.

Care

The core business and foundation of all healthcare work, involving the consistent, safe, and respectful delivery of high-quality, person-centred care that meets individual needs.

Compassion

The delivery of care through relationships founded on empathy, respect, and dignity, which builds trust and therapeutic relationships beyond mere kindness.

Competence

The possession of the knowledge, skills, and clinical judgement necessary to understand an individual's health and social needs and deliver effective, evidence-based care.

Communication

The verbal, non-verbal, written, and digital interaction central to effective teamwork and patient safety, requiring active listening and clear documentation.

Courage

The willingness to do the right thing for patients, speak up when concerns or errors arise, challenge poor practice, and advocate for patients.

Commitment

A dedication to improving care and supporting patients, families, and colleagues through lifelong learning, continuous professional development, and professional accountability.

SBAR

A structured communication and prioritisation tool (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) used to standardise handovers and enhance patient safety.

Freedom to Speak Up Guardians

Designated roles within NHS Trusts that support staff in raising concerns and reporting poor or unsafe practice, counteracting hierarchical or blame cultures.

Gibbs Reflective Model

A structured reflective framework recommended for healthcare workers and students to process emotional experiences and mitigate burnout.

Cultural Humility

An approach in patient care based on asking rather than assuming, intended to prevent bias and ensure respectful, person-centred care across diverse backgrounds.

The NMC Code

The professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives, and nursing associates that embeds the 6Cs into professional regulatory standards.