28 February 2023
Our group of 18 professionals were back at Ashridge House for the third module of the Future Leaders programme.
The day started off with the group sharing their reflections on their time in the programme and how what they’ve learnt has influenced their working environment, personal life and how they will adopt these changes to become better leaders for tomorrow.
We caught up with Will Gregory, who has 20 years of experience in rheumatology physiotherapy,(five years at consultant level) and is due to take up the post of Vice President for allied health professionals this summer. He is now keen to get fellow allied health professionals, nurses, and pharmacists in rheumatology up to advanced and consultant level practice.
Will spoke to us about how the diverse mix of the group really shone through with a very strong multidisciplinary workforce.
“The mix of the group meant I've been able to talk through concerns and issues I have on my leadership journey with people that are at a similar level.
“The impact will be broad from the 18 of us spanning out and going back to our local areas and leading change. Also personally, it's given me a chance to reflect upon my leadership journey and how I could lead on the things that I'm passionate about.
“The programme has given us space to have these conversations and I think that's something we miss in the hectic day-to-day life in an NHS work role. You don't have a chance to sit back and reflect.
“It has allowed me to think about things I've done that have been challenging and what I need to do better, and it's a chance to really encourage myself for the things we have achieved and what we can do from there.”
A theme of confidence swept throughout the group, as many touched on how the programme has opened their eyes to many aspects about themselves that they may not have learnt if they hadn’t been on the programme.
Judith Jade, a rheumatology trainee, talked to us about how the programme has made her believe in her ability and have more self-confidence.
“My leadership style has been impacted in a positive way during this programme. I find I question myself and I have a critical inner thought process. I’ve now learnt to stand up for myself and my point of view, but also understand and contextualise what other people are saying and where they may be coming from and take a step back from the conversation.
“I know now for people to be able to get the best out of me, it’s important to have faith in myself. We’ve talked a lot about self-care and self-confidence, and it really gave me the boost I needed.”
The team have one more action learning session in April before the final fourth module and residential session, which will be held on 17 May.