Mentoring for Change is designed as a group programme where one mentor is responsible for one group of mentees. The idea behind the group mentoring programme is that a mentor can more easily identify patterns based on multiple similar experiences of obstacles and barriers that may be systemic in nature. With the support of mentors, mentees can share experiences in small confidential groups, form networks and gain learning and support from each other.
The mentor's role in group mentoring is expanded, establishing a two-way relationship where mentors and mentees act as 'partners for change', identifying structural barriers together and reflecting on their own daily practice from a diversity, inclusion and equality and other perspectives.
The role as a mentor in Mentoring for Change requires skills in facilitating conversations in a group format, in ensuring a safe and confidential common space for dialogue, and in putting the mentee group's experiences into perspective and transforming them into organisational/systemic input and knowledge.
Mentoring for Change at SUND is planned as mentoring groups consisting of 4-5 mentees.
The programme runs for one year. During the programme, there will be two full-day seminars attended by mentees (mentors are welcome). Mentors and mentees are expected to meet for five 2-hour meetings during the programme.
During the first meeting, the mentor and mentees agree on how often, in what format and with what degree of preparation the group plans to meet during the programme. The group also discusses boundaries and ethics. The agreement also makes explicit the group's mutual expectations of confidentiality and ethical conduct in relation to the mutual sharing of experiences.
As a mentor you commit to:
- completing the programme
- meeting the mentee group 5 times during the programme
- sparring with GET on process and progression
- reporting to GET in case of challenges before or during the mentoring programme
- complying with general rules of confidentiality
As a mentor you are responsible for:
- making an agreement with the mentee group on how often, in what format and with what degree of preparation the group plans to meet
- ensuring that the conversations in the mentee group establish a safe and secure space for all participants - and that everyone understands the general rules of confidentiality
- transforming mentee group input into organisational learning, input on a systemic level and organic change
As a mentor you can expect:
- to receive an introduction to the mentor role, contracts, discussion of ethics, boundaries, mentee development and goals as well as ongoing feedback and support from GET
- to be equipped to fulfil the role of a mentor
- to get feedback on meeting planning and meeting structures
- that SUND is responsible for the logistical planning and execution of the programme
- that transportation costs are covered by the head of department
Mentoring is recognised as a valued activity like supervision. Standard hours are expected to amount to 5x2 hours plus preparation for group meetings and 3 hours for meetings with GET. An estimated total of 20 hours per programme/group.