Amplifying Clear, Caring, and Courageous Leaders to Cultivate Compassionate, Quality Practice Environments

This research explores how clear, caring, and courageous (CCC) leadership practices can be intentionally amplified to foster compassionate and high-quality practice environments within Fraser Health. Employing a multi-method qualitative action research design grounded in Appreciative Inquiry (AI) and Participatory Action Research (PAR), the study engaged leaders and their sponsors through stratified surveys and collaborative focus groups. Data collection focused on identifying current strengths, areas requiring greater support, and pathways for development in CCC practices as leverage points for organizational impact. Key findings indicate that leaders most often need support in maintaining work-life balance, taking innovative risks, and making data-driven, strategic decisions. Additionally, they benefit from growth in relational practices rooted in curiosity, care, presence, equity, and inclusion. A synthesis of leader and sponsor perspectives yields actionable recommendations and system-level considerations to embed CCC leadership more effectively throughout the organization. The results offer a roadmap for nurturing leadership that supports both staff well-being and system-wide compassionate care, informing future approaches to leadership development, policy, and practice at Fraser Health.