Empowering New Parents: How RSPCA is Transforming Careers with Leaders Plus Fellowship

Supporting Parents in Leadership

RSPCA staff who are parents to young children have taken part in a career development programme aimed at helping them progress in their careers while raising their kids. Seven members of staff have participated in the award-winning Leaders Plus Fellowship programme, which is designed to support parents in balancing their ambitions and family commitments.

The Leaders Plus Fellowship

Through workshops, roundtable events, and online resources, the Leaders Plus Fellowship helps parents remain on the leadership pipeline while enjoying time with their children. The programme seeks to create a positive change, ensuring no parent has to choose between their career and family life, while also addressing the gender pay gap.

Emily Wilton, Head of Talent & Career Development, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, “Sadly, sometimes parents feel they must choose between an ambitious career and their family life.” The fellowship provides ongoing support, mentorship, and a community of like-minded individuals for a whole year, equipping staff with practical skills to progress into leadership roles.

Research Findings

Research from Leaders Plus indicates that 40% of people believe women are less committed at work after having a child. Moreover, a man’s flexible work request is twice as likely to be denied compared to a woman's. Leaders Plus aims to change this narrative by supporting parents during and after their parental leave.

Personal Experiences

Imara Ó Niocail, a Chief Inspector at RSPCA, shared her positive experience with the programme, stating it helped her balance her roles as a mother, wife, and line manager without feeling divided. Similarly, Vikki Starling, Senior Project Manager, described the fellowship as a game-changer that has boosted her confidence and helped her focus on high-impact activities both at work and home.

Looking Ahead

The RSPCA plans to continue offering this valuable programme to staff, with an additional five aspiring managers set to join the newly launched Future Leaders Plus programme in 2025. For more information about careers at RSPCA, visit their website.