Board Leadership Programme

The Board Leadership Programme (BLP) is a development programme for chairs and non-executive directors in the NHS in London. The overall aim of the BLP is to maximise the contribution of chairs and non-executive directors (NEDs) to the effective leadership of the NHS in London.

Since the programme began in May 2000, all health authorities and NHS trusts in the London region have been represented at our programme events. We are seeking to build on this success. Our commitment is to sustain and continue to develop a range of learning opportunities.

The BLP is funded by the strategic health authority and NHS trusts in London, including foundation trusts, and with support from The King’s Fund.

The programme

The programme offers:

• a range of development opportunities designed to build on the current experience, knowledge and skills of chairs and non-executive directors in the London region
• a flexible and responsive programme; developed to meet the emerging needs of individuals and organisations
• opportunities to enhance the contribution of chairs and non-executive directors’ work on specific issues affecting London 
• a forum whereby chairs and non-executive directors are supported and enabled to make an enhanced contribution towards improving board effectiveness, corporate governance and the development of unitary boards.

The programme has demanded a more focused approach to meet the complexity and challenges of the radical changes in the NHS. We have worked to ensure that this programme meets the new demands and offers the opportunity to keep up to date in the health reform, and offers support in sustaining the core activities of the NHS.

The programme as a whole provides a mix of skills development, NHS awareness events, workshops and seminars. Chairs and non-executive directors are invited to put together their own portfolio of learning. For many non-executive directors this is done in consultation with their chairs and may be discussed in the appraisal process.

The combination of practical learning, experiential learning and informed debate aims to provide non-executive board members with the competence to fulfil their roles to meet the challenges of the changing NHS.

Types of event

Seminars

Seminars are given by leading experts and aim to inform and educate on important topical issues concerning NHS policy. These events will provide the opportunity to have open discussions and influence leaders in the NHS.

Workshops

Workshops offer a more practically based form of learning with the aim of improving skills such as chairing skills, presentation skills, working in challenging environments and speed reading.

Learning sets

Learning sets are small group learning events where each member of the set brings an issue important to them that they wish to progress. The set meeting provides real-time thinking and reflection whilst being firmly based in potential action by the person presenting.
Download recent event presentations

For more information email Programme Co-ordinator Tracy Nottage or call her on 020 7307 2593.