1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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