NWDA launches group mentoring sessions

A PROGRAMME to provide firms across the North West with group mentoring to improve their business performance has been launched by the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA).

The Business Mentoring Programme is designed to help managers of small businesses with a turnover of less than £500,000 develop their leadership and management skills.

Businesses have been able to book one-to-one mentoring sessions since last September but this is the first time that they have been able to take part in group sessions.

Topics covered will include leadership development, competency development, creative techniques and a tailor-made ‘role model’ session with a successful business leader or entrepreneur.

NWDA chief executive, Steven Broomhead, said: “We’re looking to develop the next generation of leaders in the region and our quality Business Mentoring programme will help to nurture, guide and develop talent in small businesses across England’s North West.

“We’ve had a tremendous response to one-to-one mentoring since the programme was launched last year and group mentoring will give leaders and senior managers of small businesses who might not yet be ready for one-to-one support to receive invaluable help. 

“Group members will collectively support each other, whilst developing and creating innovative ideas in a facilitated environment, so maximising the effectiveness of this mode of delivery in the region.”