The programme is supported by the Local Government Group, ADASS and Skills for Care, and builds on the “Get Ahead” programme, previously run by the LGA, which received excellent feedback from both learners and their managers.
Chris Hume, Head of Leadership Programmes at the Skills Academy, says: “Despite the success of the LGA programme, there has been only limited progress in the ethnic profile of senior leaders in the social care sector. As a result the sector is missing out on the development of a cadre of talented leaders, at a time when good leadership is needed more than ever. So we are taking an innovative approach to address this issue. We need mentors to help achieve this.”
The programme offers a unique six-month development opportunity to BAME managers with the potential and desire to move into senior leadership roles in the adult social care sector. Rather than focus solely on developing the leadership skills of BAME managers, the programme involves their employer and focuses on helping people manage their careers, using coaching and a range of learning approaches and networks alongside mentoring.
The programme will commence in January 2012 and the Academy would like to hear from BAME managers who are interested in becoming mentors to programme participants.