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NHS England

NHS drawing with heart

Workforce Training and Education Directorate

NHS England oversees the delivery of healthcare services in England, ensuring high-quality care and improving health outcomes for all citizens. 

Project 1: Reciprocal Mentoring Programme

Business challenge

The primary goal was to foster a culture of listening and learning between underrepresented ethnic minority staff and predominantly white senior leadership, promoting diversity and inclusion 

Approach

  • Training Sessions: Six comprehensive sessions focused on effective mentoring techniques, empathy building, providing constructive feedback, and handling challenging conversations.

     

  • Train the Trainer: Selected participants received additional training to enable them to facilitate future mentoring sessions, ensuring the programme’s sustainability.

     

  • Learning Resources: A detailed booklet was provided, containing mentoring insights, contracts, best practices, and frequently asked questions to support participants.

     

  • Mentoring Pairings: Participants were paired based on survey results to ensure diverse and effective mentoring relationships.

     

  • Coaching Calls: Optional coaching calls were available to help participants address any issues or challenges they encountered during the mentoring process.

     

  • Project Handover: There were issues with file organisation and project management during the handover phase.

     

  • Organisational Changes: The absorption of Health Education England into NHS England affected project timelines and participant continuity. 

Results

  • Key Case Study: The programme was well-received, with significant scope and positive feedback from participants. 

  • Innovative Methodology: The approach combined mentoring, training, supplementary learning resources, and coaching, creating a comprehensive and effective programme. 

  • Positive Impact: Participants reported improved confidence, better understanding of diverse perspectives, and enhanced workplace practices. 

Project 2: Equality Impact Analysis Training

Business challenge

This project aimed to train NHS employees on the Equality Impact Analysis (EIA) process, ensuring they understand its importance and how to apply it effectively. 

Approach

  • Training Sessions: Between 10 to 15 sessions were conducted, training approximately 200 delegates.

     

  • Content: The training covered the importance of EIA, the process involved, and practical applications within the NHS context.

     

  • Adjusting Session Length and Pace: Some feedback indicated the need to adjust the length and pace of the sessions to better suit participants’ needs. 

Results

  • High Participant Satisfaction: The training sessions received high satisfaction ratings from participants, who appreciated the clarity and relevance of the content. 

  • Improved Understanding: Delegates reported a better understanding of the EIA process and its importance in promoting equality within the NHS. 

Overall Impact:

These projects have significantly strengthened the NHS’s portfolio in the health sector, demonstrating a commitment to innovative and compliance-focused initiatives. The Reciprocal Mentoring Programme and Equality Impact Analysis Training have both contributed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace. 

Comprehensive and effective programme

High satisfaction rates

NHS Flag

Testimonials:

Thank you please continue to run and offer this out to others for personal development, and growth and to better those conversations and strengths needed to make HEE the best place to work 

The session was helpful for me to identify my strengths that I can bring to the mentoring relationship, an area I am weak in. 

I really enjoyed the session. It made me feel positive afterwards in taking part in the reciprocal mentoring scheme. 

Next Steps

Following the project, a comprehensive report was published and can be accessed here.

I am really enjoying the sessions. The presenters are so inspiring.

NHS cyclist

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