Mentoring is open to all staff at the University.
It is recognised that formal and informal mentoring activity takes place across the University and that local arrangements may differ however there will be an expectation that these schemes willl follow key principles.
These are:
- participation is voluntary
- mentoring is confidential and the content of the discussions will not be discussed with any third party, although outcomes and objectives may be shared by the mentee with their line manager
- there are no specific limits on the length of a mentoring relationship although it is anticipated that most relationships will not extend beyond a year
- mentors should attend initial training and participate in ongoing CPD events, to develop their practice while they are active mentors
- the management of personal data will comply with the principles of Data Protection
- either party may end the relationship (alternatives partners can be sought to continue mentoring with another individual)
- individuals participating/involved in the scheme (ie mentors, mentees and administrators) will refer to and follow the code of practice
Roles and Responsibilities
Mentor
- to undertake initial training as required and to commit to ongoing development thereafter
- follow the principles of the scheme and agree a mentoring contract at the beginning of each relationship
- to make a genuine commitment to mentoring relationships
- to deal professionally with any conflicts of interest that arise
- to provide feedback to the Scheme Co-ordinator during the process and at the completion of the relationship
Mentee
- follow the principles of the scheme and agree a mentoring agreement at the beginning of the relationship
- to set the agenda and purpose for the relationship
- to maintain commitment to the relationship
- to observe confidentiality
- where appropriate to get agreement to participate from line manager
Line Manager
- ensure that mentees are supported during process
- respect confidentiality
Southampton University
- develop intra and inter-institutional mentor capacity and relationships
- build and quality assure all aspects of the scheme
- provide support and advice to mentors, participants and PS/Faculty mentor champions
- maintain database of staff involved in scheme
- matching (where mentee is seeking support through central register)
- organise relevant training and ongoing development for mentors (either centrally or providing tailored support to Faculty/PS)
- during this process.