We are receiving a very high volume of requests for Sponsorship at present. The central team will aim to respond to any queries within 2 weeks.

The National Sponsorship Programme provides support to high-potential finance staff who are from the groups under-represented at Director level within NHS Finance, by matching them to a senior leader in their organisation or region.

The programme is aimed at:

• female colleagues
• individuals of Black, Asian and minority ethnicity
• individuals with disabilities
• individuals that identify to the LGBTQ+ community

The sponsorship relationship is a reciprocal one that requires dedication and attention from both parties. It is the sponsee’s responsibility to deliver to a high standard and be trustworthy; they must also drive the relationship building by proactively organising meetings and shaping conversations in line with what they want to get out of the programme. In return the sponsor gives advice, feedback, creates space for their sponsee to connect with other influential professionals, and advocates for their sponsee to have access to career enhancing opportunities.