Dr Juliet MacArthur NHS Lothian Supporting the Fellows: how you can best use the support of your Mentor and Board Lead.   Dr Juliet MacArthur NHS Lothian

Why am I interested in ECCF? Personal experience as (relatively) newly qualified nurse Development of leaders Development of researchers Delivery of safe, effective, person-centred care – the contribution of critical thinking Recognition of the complexity of the NHS

ECCF Support Systems Essential role and key contact in Board Mentor Experienced staff who are employed within the NHS (or other related organisation) Support personal, professional and career development Assist exploration of healthcare within the organisational and national context Use coaching and facilitation skills to support and challenge Maximise the development of leadership potential with the overall aim of enhancing patient care. Guidance on selecting a suitable mentor Board lead for ECCF Essential role and key contact in Board

Mentor Agreeing a mentor Regular meetings (2-3 months) Needs focus but flexibility Come prepared with issues to discuss from practice and masters Expected to be ‘challenged’ – to be open to examining issues, consider wider context Problem-solving approach rather than ‘moaning session’ Support for networking/shadowing opportunities

Board Lead Formal link between Fellows and NES Accountable for public funding outlined in SLA Will need to monitor your progress every 6 months – in a supportive way as well as auditing Communication with Charge Nurses/Team Leads/Clinical Managers – e.g. funding and study leave if these have not been resolved by fellow. Communication with mentors Possibly – regular meetings with local cohorts Publicity of ECCF within the Board (e.g. Newsletters) Recruitment of future Fellows Wider opportunities within Health Board during and post ECCF

Conclusion Fantastic opportunity to be seized! Expectations are that you will be self-motivated and self-directed (why you were selected!) Really engage with your Mentor– learn from their experience and challenge. Come prepared. Keep in close touch with your Board Lead – early notification of any issues you have not been able to resolve Take up opportunities for network – seek advice from your support systems