BAPEN is delighted to announce the launch of a new, free Mentoring Programme available to all members. Overseen by Mentoring Lead Ruksar Nishath, the initiative is delivered through the multi-award-winning Perform Learn Develop (PLD) platform, designed to support professional development at every career stage.
The programme was successfully piloted by a group of BAPEN volunteers and officially launched at Conference in November 2025. Since then, interest has grown steadily, with 23 mentors and 21 mentees already registered – and numbers continuing to rise.
Alastair McKinlay, Co-Chair of BAPEN’s Faculty, commented:
“This is a hugely exciting development for BAPEN members. Mentoring offers valuable support to individuals at all stages of their careers, across different sectors and groups – from those just starting out, to experienced professionals seeking fresh perspectives. We’ve chosen to use the PLD platform as it is well-established and widely respected across the professional development field.”
BAPEN’s Board of Trustees have championed the creation of the Mentoring Programme, recognising its value for members. Alastair added:
“We know that in the healthcare sector, workplace pressures and stress are higher than ever, with increasing levels of burnout. Our aim is to provide members with a supportive option before challenges become overwhelming.
“I’d like to thank the BAPEN team who have driven this, especially Ruksar Nishath and Amanda Dando, for their dedication in bringing the scheme to life. I’m excited to see the positive impact it will have on our community.”
Ruksar Nishath, Mentoring Lead, commented:
“Members can sign up as mentors, mentees, or both – at any time, with no restrictive windows. The platform is user-friendly, featuring step-by-step video guides for every stage of the mentoring journey. Especially for those who think they would like to try being a mentor but have never had any experience in this area, the platform’s videos train you in all the skills and principles needed.”
Accessing the platform is simple: people can visit the member’s area of the BAPEN website, complete a short registration, and set up a profile. The system matches mentors and mentees based on their interests and needs, enabling them to arrange online meetings via a secure calendar and keep confidential notes – all within the platform.
For prospective mentors, a suite of educational videos provides guidance and support, with no prior experience required. Mentees can explore resources on how mentoring can benefit them, practical advice for making the most of sessions, and tips for navigating the platform.
Ruksar continued:
“Members can use the programme for a wide range of purposes – from honing specific skills such as presenting or leadership, to seeking broader career guidance and exploring new professional opportunities. Alternatively, people may just want to gain fresh insights into their career path or simply connect with others for mutual learning. I would really encourage members to take advantage of this exciting new benefit which is a brilliant opportunity for people to connect, learn, and grow together.”
To sign up to the programme, visit the members area of the BAPEN website and search for the mentoring programme, or click here.
