Conflict Management in the NHS

This is the sixth module in the IMG to NHS series, designed to help International Medical Graduates develop the communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills needed to work safely and professionally within NHS healthcare environments.

This module explores how conflict develops within clinical settings and provides practical strategies to manage difficult conversations, negotiate effectively, de-escalate tension, and maintain psychological safety. Learners will explore frameworks such as the Interest-Based Relational approach, SCARF model, STAR, SPIES, and structured negotiation techniques commonly used within healthcare environments.

Conflict within healthcare settings is unavoidable. Differences in communication styles, hierarchy, cultural expectations, workload pressures, patient concerns, and multidisciplinary decision-making can all contribute to tension within teams. For IMGs adapting to the NHS, understanding how to manage these situations confidently and professionally is essential.

The module also examines challenging real-world NHS scenarios involving colleagues, patients, relatives, rota disputes, workplace pressures, and escalation concerns. Alongside this, learners will develop greater awareness of psychological safety, boundaries, reflective practice, unconscious bias, and the importance of speaking up safely within healthcare organisations.

Designed specifically for IMGs, this module aims to build confidence in navigating difficult interactions while maintaining professionalism, patient safety, and positive multidisciplinary working relationships.