This was the first time they had met since it launched in 2022, with colleagues from diverse backgrounds across the system from each of the programme’s seven cohorts having the opportunity to feel connected, share their stories and lived experiences, gain new ideas, learn more, have fun, and re-engage.
The programme is for colleagues from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds as well as disabled people, working in clinical and non-clinical roles.
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.
A number of activities and networking sessions took place, on the theme of ‘we rise by lifting others to realise their true potential’, alongside networking sessions and the chance to hear from alumni about their own experiences on and off the programme.
The day ended with an inspirational and motivational keynote speech and Q&A session with Terry Roberts, Chief People Officer and Executive Member at Oxford University Hospital – who has accomplished a great deal across NHS organisations.
Valerie Brown-Beckford, ICDP programme lead and training manager, said: “It is amazing what can happen when people collectively come together to connect as humans – to sharpen each other by seeking to grow together to hone the edges of what we are meant to be.”
The 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 skills further.
For more information about the programme and to express your interest in participating in 2025 cohorts, email the ICDP team.