EYST Wales Routes to Public Life Programme - Evaluation Report
We are pleased to release this report on EYST Wales’ Routes into Public Life Mentoring Scheme, which aims to increase representation of ethnic minority people in Public and Political Life by matching individuals with influential public figures in Wales on a 6-month mentoring and training programme. The initial two rounds of the scheme have demonstrated effective outcomes and impact for participants, some of whom have gone on to prominent positions in Public Life. To date 53 individuals have completed the programme, and a further 33 are on the current third round of the programme.
The evaluation report of the programme shows that the impact for mentees includes:
• 76% reported a ‘Significant’ or ‘Huge’ impact on their aspirations;
• 68% stated a ‘Significant’ or ‘Huge’ impact on their confidence;
• 70% reported a ‘Significant’ or ‘Huge’ impact on their Understanding of Public and Political Life in Wales .
One Mentee from Round Two stated: ‘’Doors have been opened that I thought would never be opened. I have made fast friends too, diverse and across the political spectrum. I am so much closer to achieving my goals and am now blessed with a wonderful network of friends.’’
Deputy Minister and Chief Whip Jane Hutt who was also a Mentor on the programme has said:
“The Welsh Government is proud to fund the BAME routes to public life mentoring scheme as part of our Equality and Inclusion Programme. The scheme has delivered excellent results over the past few years; creating empowering relationships which provide Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals crucial opportunities to learn, influence and build networks. There is more work to do to achieve the representation of BAME people that we need in public life but this scheme provides a crucial foundation for that work”.
We would like to give thanks to all the people who have supported programme, most especially mentors and mentees, each of whom have devoted considerable time and energy into this initiative.
