Schwartz Rounds are a safe space where people working in healthcare can discuss the emotional and social impact of practice. These forums are not about problem-solving, they’re about coming together to reflect on the emotional challenges - and rewards - that come from delivering compassionate care.
Sally Snowden and Karzan Hughes received the Teaching Practice (Health) Award for their part in facilitating Schwartz Rounds for staff and students in the Faculty, alongside colleagues Caroline Haw and Rachael Duckworth from the School of Allied Health Professions, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery. The judging panel were impressed with how they empowered students to support each other, and created a wide-ranging impact on inclusion across the School and Faculty.
Karzan Hughes, University Teacher in Orthoptics, said: "It is wonderful to see the impact of Schwartz Rounds recognised through the Education Awards.
"We hope these Rounds provide a safe and inclusive space for staff and students to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the emotional impact of healthcare. This ensures our students are supported emotionally, as well as clinically.
Students often carry patients’ stories with them throughout their pre-registration training. Our goal is to help them graduate not only with clinical capability, but with the compassion needed to care for their patients and themselves.
Karzan Hughes
University Teacher
Sally Snowden, University Teacher in Nursing, said: "I am honoured to receive this award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our wonderful Compassion in Care facilitators.
“Our goal has always been to empower our students not just as clinical practitioners, but as a resilient community. Fostering a culture of mutual support helps our students navigate the emotional complexities of patient care, ensuring that no healthcare student feels they have to carry the emotional weight of patient care alone.
“I am incredibly proud of how this initiative has brought academics, professional services and students together and ultimately championed inclusion across the Faculty, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and supported.”