GREEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME
GREEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME
The Northern Network, in partnership with Natural England, has launched a new programme of support and skills development for people working in the green sector.
This pilot programme offers a unique experience for new Green Leaders, providing them with a space away from the day-to-day, to benefit from peer support and guidance from experts on environmental, community, and business sustainability.
WHO IS IT FOR?
The programme is designed for those that are in the early–mid stages of their career and who have either of the following:
- An idea for a new Community Interest Company, a community group, or initiative, but require support to understand how this could be set up
- An established organisation/group looking for more support with building their networks and understanding how to grow their organisation
WHEN DOES IT TAKE PLACE?
The programme takes place over 5 months, between July – November 2023. Participants attend workshop days at a venue in the North of England on one day each month, as follows:
| Date | Location |
| 25th July | Horton Community Farm, Bradford |
| 22nd August | One Knowsley, Liverpool |
| 19th September | Platt Fields Market Garden, Manchester |
| 24th October | West Boldon Lodge, Boldon, South Tyneside |
| 21st November | Eden Rural Foyer, Penrith. |
WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?
Participants attend a series of in-person full-day sessions with a guest speaker and expert facilitator. Each session has a theme and is designed to empower participants to think laterally about their own organisation. The themes are:
- Leadership
- Community
- Wellbeing
- Sustainability
- Reflections
Participants are also matched with a mentor from a local Groundwork Trust offering ongoing support throughout the programme and helping participants get the most from their workshops and sessions.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
There is no charge, the Northern Network, with Natural England, is piloting this subsidised learning programme to help support the development of leadership skills in the sector. Furthermore, all participants are allocated a personal development budget of £1,250 that they are free to either put towards their time and travel costs or to support their continued development between the sessions.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTERWARDS?
There will be continued support on offer to help participants plan their next steps and to utilise the skills and networks they have built. There will also be a reunion in early 2024, with a chance to reflect on the programme and share progress since its conclusion.
HOW DO I APPLY?
The application process is now closed, to be considered for future cohorts, please email northernnetwork@groundwork.org.uk
Stories FRom OUR GREEN LEADERS
Explore news, updates and blog posts from this year’s Green Leadership Programme cohort…
Programme Reflections: Rachel Ford
Rachel joined the Green Leadership Programme to learn how she could enhance her knowledge. Here, she tells us about her experience and what she’s done as a result of the programme:
Programme Reflections: Laura Patten
Laura joined the Programme to help her develop her leadership skills. One of her biggest challenges was the travelling involved. Here, she talks us through why that was such an achievement for her…
Programme Reflections: Marina Waters
Hear from Marine Waters, one of the particpants on the Green Leadership Pogramme, and learn how it has helped with her project, the Community Bike Library
Green Leadership Programme: Health and Wellbeing
We’re now halfway through our Green Leadership Programme and our cohort met again last week at the wonderful Platt Fields Market Garden in Manchester to immerse themselves in a session all about health and wellbeing.
Programme Reflections: Vicky Rimmer
Vicky joined our Green Leadership Programme to support her work on the Everton Community Garden, part of the Friends of Everton Park. Read her reflections on the programme.
Programme Reflections: David Barnes
David joined our Green Leadership Programme from his project: Ambassadors for the Canal – Canal Lengths Persons (CLP). The CLP Project provides a structured and purposeful opportunity for trained volunteers to support and promote the blue and green environment of the canal, towpath, and neighbouring areas.
Programme Reflections: John Harrison
John is the founder of Solidarity Farm CIC, a working farm in Northumberland that works with young people struggling with mainstream education. Using farm and nature-based activities, it provides a non-judgemental space for young people to be themselves and connect with nature.
Programme Reflections: Trish Goodwin
Trish joined the Green Leadership Programme to meet new people and find out more about other projects. Here, she tells us about her experience and what she’s done as a result of the programme:
