If you say the phrase “Darzi Fellow” to most people in the Pharmacy would, not a lot of people would know what one was, or indeed, what one actually does. If you had asked me this question just over a year ago, I would’ve had the same response. However, once I had discovered this role, I knew it was right for me.
Over the past 8 years, Darzi Fellowships have been set up and run through the NHS Leadership Academy. Conceived by Lord Ara Darzi, through his work he carried out examining the NHS for the Government, the idea was to inspire and train future leaders of the NHS and equip them with the skills and knowledge base required to lead change and shape the future workings of the NHS. Every year, organisations (both NHS and arm’s length bodies) can apply for funding for a Darzi Fellow to undertake a 12 month improvement project examining a specific aspect of clinical practice that intends to bring about real change to that specific area. The fellow may need a certain skill set (i.e. A doctor or pharmacist) or simply have a passion for change.
Projects can focus on various aspects of healthcare. This year’s include Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) education and training, integrated workforce planning and implementing and supporting vanguard models of care.
The projects allow the candidate to develop their skills in leadership, but to also create a vast network of links to all areas of healthcare and healthcare policy which may not have been encountered in their day to day roles. Along side the practical aspect of the project, fellows enrol on an academic taught programme via London South Bank University, which aims to provide the fellows with the in depth analytical and reflective tools, to make the project a success and awards a postgraduate qualification, if successfully completed. My project is based at Health Education England North West London, and will look at the the education and training of foundation pharmacists across all sectors and ensure the quality and level of support and training we provide, will enable the pharmacists to make the best out of their skills. The benefits for me include; meeting a wide range of people across all areas of the UK leading to a broad and varied personal and professional network, helping to broaden my understanding of the “behind the scenes working” of the NHS and also to develop my leadership, organisational and time management skills, to name a few. All of this happens whilst having the opportunity to really make an impact upon my profession.
I hope to meet as many people as I can from the pharmacy world over the next 12 months to engage and hear your views on the changes within the profession during a very exciting time. If you want to know more, feel free to drop me an email on Gareth.kitson@nwl.hee.nhs.uk.