NHS Lanarkshire is committed to empowering staff to become confident, capable leaders.
Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or refining your skills as an experienced manager, our Essentials of Leadership & Management (ELM) and Forging Influence & Responsibility (FIR) programmes provide tailored opportunities to help you grow, lead, and inspire. Applications for these courses – recognised as exemplary practice by the UK HR industry – are now open.
But you need to hurry – applications close soon!
To apply or learn more:
To view an information leaflet and complete an application form for ELM, please go to:
https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ELM_Spring_2025/
To view an information leaflet and complete an application form for FIR, please go to:
Forging Influence & Responsibility (FIR) Programme, Spring 2025
In the meantime, this Pulse Online special feature article, here’s all you need to know:
National recognition for excellence
NHS Lanarkshire’s Learning & Organisational Development (L&OD) Department recently achieved national recognition for their exemplary leadership programmes. Named finalists at the HR Network’s annual industry awards, the L&OD team’s commitment to innovation and impact in the FIR and ELM courses stood out among a highly competitive field of entries from leading HR teams across Scotland.
This accolade highlights the transformative power of these programmes and the dedication of the L&OD Faculty in fostering leadership excellence across NHS Lanarkshire.
Essentials of leadership and management (ELM)
The ELM Programme is designed for staff across all bands (3 to 8, including non-AfC equivalent roles) who aspire to leadership roles, are new to management, or wish to formalise their experience with practical and theoretical learning.
Why Choose ELM?
ELM offers:
- Confidence-building tools for leadership challenges;
- Practical strategies for effective team management;
- Networking opportunities with peers across NHS Lanarkshire;
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Preparation for future leadership roles.
Debbie Franch, Learning and Organisational Development Advisor, said:
“ELM is a fantastic opportunity for anyone with the potential and motivation to take their leadership skills to the next level. Whether you’re an aspiring leader looking to get recruitment-ready, a first-time manager seeking guidance, or someone with a wealth of experience but no formal training, this program me is designed for you.”
Derek Cameron, a recent participant, added: “The ELM course has been extremely beneficial to myself as an aspiring manager; however, the core aspects of the course apply to all roles, experience, and levels. The alternating management and leadership modules really keep you engaged while gaining valuable knowledge from others in your group. I’d encourage anyone aspiring to be in a managerial role or current managers to complete this course.”
Programme details
Dates: Late February to mid-June 2025
Application Deadline: 7th January 2025
Forging Influence and Responsibility (FIR) For experienced leaders and managers, the FIR Programme offers an advanced leadership development journey focused on collaboration, practical application, and strategic thinking.
Why Choose FIR?
FIR provides:
- Self-assessment with a tailored leadership profile report and development planning
- Group coaching sessions to embed theory into practice
- Expert-led content and real-world case discussions
- Opportunities for cross-team collaboration and networking
Hazel Mitchell, General Manager of the Interface Division, reflects on her experience:
“The FIR course was exceptionally helpful in so many ways. It provided a rare and valuable opportunity to collaborate with leaders from across our diverse organisation. FIR created a safe and supportive space where like-minded managers and leaders could talk openly about real-world challenges and issues. The shared learning and reflections from this course have been instrumental in shaping my leadership approach.”
Programme details
Dates: Spring 2025 (Nine half-day sessions over approximately four months)
Application Deadline: 31st January 2025
Who Can Apply?
Both programmes are open to all NHS Lanarkshire staff who meet the criteria:
ELM is ideal for first-time managers, aspiring leaders, and experienced managers seeking formal training.
FIR is tailored for experienced leaders and managers ready to deepen their impact and strategic thinking.
Take the next step in your leadership journey
The ELM and FIR programmes are designed to ensure you’re supported every step of the way by the L&OD colleagues, your peers, and NHS Lanarkshire.
Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your skills, expand your influence, and make a lasting impact on your team and organisation.
If you have any questions, please contact learningandod@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk and the team will be happy to help.
