Worker Development Programme

Download the full schedule

Please note:

• There are no sessions scheduled in August, unless you arrange a coaching session with your coach.
• No homework will be set on this course.

Is it free?

Yes, this programme is completely funded by Local Trust, including all travel and subsistence expenses. The only thing we ask of you is to commit to the learning and coaching sessions in the programme schedule.

Do I need any specific qualifications to join the programme?

No qualifications are needed. As long as you are a Big Local worker, you can submit an expression of interest form.

Is it important to attend all the learning sessions?

Yes, you will be expected to give your full commitment to the entire programme to get the most out of it. If you don’t think you will be able to make this commitment, please ask your LTO or Big Local partnership to support the time commitment required or recognise the timing may not be right for you at this time.

We welcome individual queries on this issue and may be able to provide further support (this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis).

What happens if I am unwell or need to rearrange a coaching session at the last minute?

Individual coaches will strive to provide maximum flexibility to accommodate your needs. Generally, if you miss a session without advance notice you will lose that session, but coaches will attempt to reschedule once before considering cancellation.

What technology or tools are required for participation?

To fully engage in the learning journey, you’ll need a functional phone, tablet or laptop equipped with a camera and microphone. Additionally, a stable internet connection is essential. If you anticipate issues in engaging because of technology, please contact us on communications@peasinapodconsulting.org.uk to explore potential adjustments.

Who are the instructors or facilitators and what are their qualifications?

The coaches and facilitators on this learning programme have a range of credentials, qualifications, accreditations, certifications and experience. Both Koreo and Peas in a Pod have extensive experience delivering programmes of this nature. We can also answer any questions you have about your coach once they are assigned to you.

Will there be an evaluation or exam at the end of the programme?

No. We have placed emphasis on practical application, hands-on experiences, and collaborative learning to equip participants with real-world skills, without the unnecessary pressure of an exam or test.

Can I benefit from the programme content even if I don’t have time to attend the programme?

Where relevant, we will send out links to the resource hub so that all workers can benefit from the programme learning materials, to help you in your role and beyond.

How can participants get support if they encounter difficulties during the programme?

You will have access to a coach, as well as the option to contact Peas in a Pod directly to request support.

Participating in the programme will equip your worker with the necessary tools and confidence to effectively navigate the remainder of your Big Local delivery plan and remain focussed on closing out of the programme and/or transitioning to legacy projects with confidence. It will also support your Big local and partnership in a number of ways:

• It increases the likelihood of worker retention: The programme is designed for workers to feel heard, seen, recognised, valued, more confident and less alone in what can sometimes be a lonely role. We aim to reinvigorate workers and focus them on closing out projects with confidence, rather than actively leaving or disengaging from the programme because they are feeling isolated.
• It demonstrates a duty of care: Supporting activity of this nature will demonstrate to your workers that you understand and support their professional development needs at this stage of the Big Local programme. It’s a great way to give something back!
• It is a cost-effective way of providing personalised support: Our research, and the nature of the Big Local funding model, tells us that workers sometimes feel caught in the middle between LTOs and partnerships which can be difficult to navigate. This dedicated programme can help with personalised support and provide clarity around their role to enable them to focus on delivery. In addition, the programme is free, as the costs are met by Local Trust.
• It increases confidence in a world after Big Local: Workers tell us they are unsure how they will manage ongoing projects after Local Trust funding comes to an end. This can be addressed through personalised coaching and signposting to additional support.
• It will highlight risks to wellbeing: Our research found that Big Local workers frequently experience pressure to meet the needs of others, leaving limited time for self-care and reflection. They are also community leaders who lead through service, and can benefit from leadership development opportunities.
• It will optimise your impact: Big Local workers can be self-deprecating and sometimes unaware of how to promote their work and leverage their impact for the benefit of the community. By gaining increased skills and confidence through this programme, they will be able to create security for themselves and sustainability for the projects and initiatives they manage and deliver.
• It strengthens the community development sector: The project aims to have a ripple effect. Increasing the confidence and capacity of Big Local workers will contribute to developing champions of community-led change!

I’ve encouraged a worker to apply and they want to find out more. What can they do?

Alongside our FAQs for workers (above), we will be:

• Holding a webinar about the Worker Development Programme on 29 February from 1 – 2pm where workers can find out more about the programme and ask any questions they have. You will be able to watch a recording of the webinar on this page after the live event.
• They can also contact communications@peasinapodconsulting.org.uk if they have specific questions about the programme.