Prospect’s Women’s lay leadership programme meets for inspirational day in London

Amid the June heatwave, participants in Prospect’s first women’s lay leadership programme met for an inspirational day in London, which included a discussion panel with women in leadership roles and, after a tour of Parliament, a meeting with MPs.

In the morning they heard about the personal journeys of a panel of women leaders, led by Prospect President, Eleanor Wade.

The other panellists were Lisa Allen, Director of Data Services at the Pensions Regulator; Tanya Robinson, Associate Director of Reward at UK Research and Innovation; and Lauren Vallas and Sabrina Perkins, both senior operational managers in the Prison Service.

Notwithstanding their differing occupational and life experiences, the panellists all emphasised the importance of collaboration, authenticity, openness to new ideas and opportunities, and a continuing desire to learn.

Following a tour of Parliament, the afternoon session featured a second panel discussion, this time comprising three MPs – Charlotte Nichols, MP for Warrington North, Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft, and Catherine Atkinson, MP for Derby North.

Despite differing routes into Parliament, the MPs all highlighted the importance of support and encouragement from senior women colleagues and the rewards from stepping outside their personal comfort zones.

They also spoke about the challenges in balancing home and Parliamentary life, and the importance of recognising and valuing the support of others to sustain their careers.

The women’s lay leadership programme aims to support reps who want to build on and beyond their branch leadership roles. It is a one-year programme, delivered through a combination of virtual and in person activity.