Springboard offers mentoring for women officers

Springboard is a programme in West Midlands police aimed at women up to sergeant rank and Band C grades. It is run by an external consultant and programmes usually occur twice yearly.

The programme comprises four workshops over three months. At each workshop a speaker is invited to talk informally about her own development, bringing the sessions to life and providing ideas and encouragement for the participants.

The experience and advice speakers can offer other women may prove a real asset and an inspiration to encourage them to achieve their full potential.

The role entails talking to a group of about 30 women for about 20/25 minutes, telling the story of what has happened to them in their lives and careers to date.

It is important that Springboard speakers are positive and enthusiastic and include some personal aspects such as work/ life balance, setting boundaries and looking after themselves.

Other useful things which speakers may discuss are:

•The role of a mentor, helpful boss, or someone key who supports you
•Networking and finding support
•Taking up a difficult challenge
•Coping strategies and looking after yourself
•Taking courses/qualifications/passing exams/other development activities/going for promotion