The programme is open to anyone from a black, Asian and ethnic minority background as well as disabled people, working in clinical and non-clinical roles. Often these colleagues don’t feel like they have the same opportunities and support, nor access to development opportunities and funding, for career progression towards more senior levels.
There was lots of praise for the 16 graduates, from the third cohort at bands 5-7 (level 8-11) we’ve had come through this programme, as they presented their service improvement projects over two online sessions. The projects were a result of six months of hard work and dedication learning new skills and knowledge to help with their career progression.
The group is superbly coached and supported by Valerie Brown-Beckford, ICDP lead and training manager with the Hertfordshire and West Essex Health and Care Academy.
Over the two days, participants heard from two guest speakers. On day one, Yvonne Egbuna, Assistant Director of Organisational Development and Transformation at Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, spoke about how she got to where she is, the challenges she faced and who and what helped her along the way.
Valerie commented: “Yvonne’s ability to engage and educate our audience with her story was impressive, thought provoking and inspiring.”
On day two, our chief executive officer Dr Jane Halpin shared her leadership journey and top tips for success before presenting virtual certificates to the whole group.
The ICDP brings together health and social care colleagues to support them in their career aspirations and open up more opportunities for their future. They look at topics such as leadership, diversity, coaching, career planning and more.
Reflecting on this week’s events, Valerie added: “The cohort certainly pulled out all the stops and presented some incredible service improvement projects. The way they oozed with confidence in what they know and presented was admirable and amazing.”
The six-month programme is open to health and social care staff working in Hertfordshire or west Essex at agenda for change bands 2-7 and county council levels 1-11 looking to move to the next step in their career or to develop their skills further.
For more information about the programme and to express an interest in participating in 2025 cohorts, email the ICDP team.