OverviewThis image shows the Fellowship logo. The text reads 'The Fellowship Programme- Increasing the diversity of our leadership in West Yorkshire

The Fellowship Programme is an award- winning leadership development programme aimed specifically at colleagues from ethnically diverse backgrounds who are working within the Health and Care system in West Yorkshire. It was designed to help achieve our 10 big ambitions as a Partnership, as set out in our Partnership 5 Year Plan.

In particular the programme aims to increase the diversity of our leaders within Health and Care roles across West Yorkshire. The programme has been running since 2020, and in that time we have had 4 cohorts of Fellows from across our system! 

Programme benefits:

Since we launched the programme, it has found great success. 82% of Cohort 1 and 67% of Cohort 2 are now in a job role of their choice since completing the programme.

Its success was even recognised at the Health Service Journal Awards where the programme won ‘System Leadership Initiative of the Year’. You can find out more about why you should apply or read case studies with previous participants for more information.

"I would not be standing here today without the Fellowship Programme"- Bilal Mohammed, Fellow, speaking at the launch of the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board Strategy

Programme structure:

This is a picture of the graduation celebration event following the conclusion of cohort 1 of the Fellowship/The programme is split into two distinct parts: a developmental period based solely in fellows own organisations, and a 12 month project placement.

Throughout the programme, fellows will also be able to access high quality learning and development, including:

  • Pastoral support from a member of the System and Leadership Development team
  • Clinical Psychologist sessions to provide psychological support during your time on the Fellowship
  • Opportunities to be matched with a trained coach and mentor for personalised support with your development needs.
  • Regular scope for growth career conversations with trained facilitators.
  • Consistent networking and peer support sessions to share their learning journey with others on the programme
  • A development programme that covers a wide range of vital leadership and management skills, through the lens of colleagues from ethnic minority backgrounds. Fellows will be introduced to concepts such as 'old power vs new power', 'white corporate culture' and 'Lumina' to dive deeper into leadership and management in a unique way. 
"My time on the fellowship programme has been nothing short of an “Lightbulb!" extravaganza! Seriously, it’s been a masterclass in self-reflection! I’ve done my fair share of leadership courses, but this one? It’s the holy grail if  you want to  discover your true, authentic, inclusive leader-self . I’m beyond grateful to be part of this leadership revolution—thank you for the enlightenment!"- Karen Ashmeade, Cohort 4

More Information:

If you'd like more information then please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions or email wyicb-wak.sldteam@nhs.net.