One year on from the launch of the Local Government Connect network, hear from Laura Santi, Project Manager for Change, about how the network has grown.
One year on from its launch in August 2024, the Local Government Connect network and mentorship scheme continues to grow. With representation from 26 councils and partner organisations and over 170 members, the network creates a space for knowledge sharing, networking and skills development for those in the early stages of their local government career.
Mentorship
Mentoring at any stage of your career plays an important role, but particularly in those early years. From first-hand experience working with my mentor, I can see how the guidance, advice and encouragement a mentor provides can help you to navigate your career confidently and with purpose.
The Local Government Connect network currently has 70 mentoring partnerships across the country supporting mentees to develop and grow in the local government sector.
Speaking to both mentors and mentees in the network there have been several success stories and positive news, such as mentees securing promoted posts and refining key interpersonal skills. I have also spoken with mentors who shared that the experience has been a rewarding one in terms of seeing their mentee succeed and benefiting from reverse mentoring in some instances.
Events
Events focus on knowledge sharing, skills development and networking. As an example, in March, there was a focused session on leadership stories. This session featured presentations from three experienced leaders working in local government and gave members the opportunity to learn from their honest accounts of their career journey, including challenges and advice on how to overcome them.
Regular drop-in sessions for both mentees and mentors are also held throughout the year to encourage peer support, networking and sharing of practice across the sector. The format of these sessions are different from network events as they are an open forum where mentees and mentors are encouraged to share their experience, good news stories and challenges.
Local Government Connect is a great way to expand your network, learn from peers and experienced leaders in the sector and develop the skills vital to progress your career.
I would encourage anyone that is interested in getting involved in the network, either as a mentee or as a mentor, to please get in touch laura.santi@improvementservice.org.uk