Sharing experiences through reverse mentoring and colleague networks

My name is Christina Taylor I am a single mother of three amazing boys aged 20, 14, and 3. I work as an Estate Manager of three sites. I have been with Anchor since December 2022.

This year, I decided to put myself forward as a mentor for our reverse mentoring programme because I felt it would be good to share my experience and knowledge. I was curious to know if my mentee (a member of senior leadership) saw things differently to me, whether that’s regarding my role as an estate manager, my residents, or just working for Anchor.

I know sometimes we may not be involved in decision making and don’t feel heard as a result, so it's good for those in a higher position to see things from another angle and be aware of the challenges we face since we know our residents best.

Having an opportunity to share experiences and be heard like this is great for so many reasons, mostly because it shows that people really care. All the mentees have put themselves forward, so it shows the work that senior leadership are willing to do to learn from network members. It obviously also shows the dedication from network members to share their experience and mentor others, and it’s good to know that there are like-minded people wanting to improve Anchor.

Giving carers a voice through our Carers' Network

The colleague networks are another great way to share experiences and learn from others. I’m really grateful to be co-chair for the Carers’ Network as the subject is close to my heart. My youngest son is non-verbal Autistic and was diagnosed in February 2024, so despite being his mother first, I am also his only carer.

I have had previous experience of working as carer, but caring for my son is different. I do this alone with no one to rely on, and when I need support that can mean having no choice but to take time off work. I know this can be an issue in some other companies, but people such as myself do not have other options.

By sharing my experiences and connecting with others, both through reverse mentoring and the colleague networks, I hope to be a voice for those also in my position and those who have the responsibility of caring for others.

I hope that the Carers’ Network will provide a place of support for others to know that there are colleagues in similar positions who really understand what they’re going through.

Workplaces where voices are heard and actioned rather than just heard provide a safe space where colleagues can talk comfortably about how they feel without judgement. It means that colleagues do not feel fear because they may need a day or two off work because of care duties, and most importantly it provides a workplace where we can offer solutions to enable every colleague to feel comfortable and welcomed.

Diversity and inclusion at Anchor

At Anchor we ensure that dignity and respect are central to the way we work, and that the unique contributions of our colleagues and residents are valued and celebrated. Find out more about our approach to Diversity and Inclusion here.