The Programme
The NHS Workforce Race Equality Standard 2023 shows Black and minority ethnic (BME) staff make up almost a quarter of the workforce, an increase since 2021. While the figures also show an increase in representation at board level – including executive board roles – BME staff still remain proportionally under-represented, and the problem gets worse as the layer of ethnicity creates an even bigger disadvantage in terms of the perceptions of talent and the level of support, they are able to access.
One barrier is the mental state of those individuals, in particular their ability to feel empowered and resilient after experiencing discrimination in the past. There is often hesitancy to put themselves forwards, and without enough support, they are unlikely to put themselves forward in the same way as their white colleagues.
This development programme aims to tackle these two factors, and the addition of the ALS and mentoring/coaching support structure allows participants to learn, grow and share after the programme.
Programme overview
2-day, 5-module workshop covering creating a viable action plan using values, vision, and goals; building confidence, skills, and encouraging self-reflection to reduce the impact of micro-aggressions and internalised stereotypes based on race and gender.
Mentor/coach
To help successful applicants gain the maximum benefit from the programme, they will need to identify an active mentor/coach before the start of the programme who will be committed to appropriately supporting and challenging the individual as they go through their career aspirations and goals. The South East Leadership Academy will support individuals choose a mentor or a coach. It will be up to the individual and their mentor/coach to agree on the frequency of the meetings. Our aim is that the mentor/coach relationship will help participants get the maximum benefit out of attending the workshop so we would recommend identifying and meeting a mentor/coach by end of Jan/ Feb before workshop dates. For further guidance, please contact us england.selll.nhs.uk.
Action Learning Sets (ALS) participants will also complete two group-facilitated Action Learning sets. That is you will meet twice during the programme. The action Learning sets are designed to provide a safe, supportive and confidential space for participants to explore options and risks of career topics and challenges as BAME members of the NHS.
Who is this programme for?
This Positive Action, Leadership Development initiative is relevant for those individuals who are seeking opportunities for career progression and promotion. It aims to support those who identify as Black, Asian, and Minority ethnics (non-white) to develop their sense of personal agency and impact and build strong networks to support their development and career progression.
Participant commitment
- Participants will be expected to commit to 2 full days course:
- Identifying a coach or a mentor (To access a list of coaches and mentors please visit South East Coaching and Mentoring page here)
- 2 Action Learning Sets (ALS) sessions
- Post-programme follow-up and evaluation
Programme Dates
2 full day course, 27th Feb and 28th Feb 2024 – 9.00 – 4.30
ALS dates: TBC (March)
If you secure a place, you agree to commit to:
- Securing a coach or a mentor pre – Workshop dates
- 2 ALS sessions post-workshop
- A minimum of 6-month coaching or mentoring relationship.
- Post programme evaluation
Please complete the Registration form on the link below as soon as possible. We only have 12 spaces on this programme.
Aim to secure a mentor or a coach by the end of January 2024, prior to the start of the Programme end of Feb 2024.
To access a list of coaches and mentors please visit and register on the coaching and mentoring hub here
For any queries about this development opportunity, please contact us here at the South East Leadership Academy: england.selll.nhs.uk
About the Facilitators
Thresholds Ltd
Over the last 20 years, Thresholds has established itself as a leading provider of highly effective, affordable career support for women. They have honed a small but customisable set of programmes and workshops that facilitate genuine transformation for individuals and organisations.
Action Learning Sets Facilitators
Sandie Dunn
Link Sandie Dunn Bio