Bank of England, Partnership

The Bank of England signed up to the Elevate programme as they recognised the importance of extending their reach to a pipeline of black-heritage talent. Now our longest standing partner, the Bank has embraced the Elevate programme with employees from across the business benefiting professionally and personally from the experience of mentoring a young person.

‘The Elevate programme is a great initiative, focussed on providing practical support to young people enabling them to take advantage of future opportunities. I t helped my personal development, making me reflect on how I approached managing my career and giving me valuable insight into the perspective of my mentees.’

Michael, Elevate Mentor

Outcomes

With a focus on active listening, emotional intelligence and people management, Elevate provided a safe space for employees to enhance essential leadership skills. “As I develop as a manager, it is important to me to develop my ability to empathise and relate to challenges my team may have. Elevate provided me with an opportunity to do this, but in a context that is different to the day to day role which I believe enables you to think 'outside the box.” Joseph explained.

For many mentors, the opportunity to interact with those from a different background was particularly valuable as shared by Dilys, “The programme allowed me to form a mentoring relationship. I was able to test my skills to develop my contact with my mentee who has different skills and outlook.”

The students were equally enthusiastic about the impact of the programme. 93% said that it improved their communication and interview skills. Importantly, it broadened their outlook. “Before the programme I felt as though I was restricted in what I could do and work as later on in life. However my mentor aided me to understand and research the many opportunities out there for me.” Princess told us.

Lasting Legacy

Elevate’s impact extends beyond the programme’s delivery. For students like Richard who went on to secure a Degree Apprenticeship, Elevate was transformational in boosting his preparedness to navigate the application process. 72% of the employees felt more engaged with the Bank’s strategy to be a more diverse recruiter and 79% considered themselves to be a more inclusive employee following their time on the programme.

“If I'm to be an ally for others with less privilege, this is a way I can demonstrate it. So this will actually embed better engagement with the EDI aims across the organisation.” stated Adrian.