Reciprocal Mentoring

The UKCRF Network is offering a Reciprocal (Peer) Mentoring pilot framework for staff working across UK and Ireland Clinical Research Facilities.

Reciprocal mentoring is an informal, two‑way partnership where both participants support each other’s learning and development.

This simple and flexible framework is supported by

the UKCRF Network Reciprocal Mentoring Guidelines, and
the Reciprocal Mentoring Directory.

Why reciprocal mentoring?

The aim of this initiative is to provide a supportive framework that enables CRF staff to connect with peers across the UKCRF Network for one‑to‑one support, reflection, and shared learning.

Reciprocal mentoring offers space to explore challenges, build confidence, and support professional development through conversation with someone who understands the realities of working in a CRF.

What does participation involve?

Participation in reciprocal mentoring is entirely voluntary
You can use the Reciprocal Mentoring Directory to identify and contact peers who have volunteered to take part in mentoring
Mentoring relationships are self‑organised (there is no formal matching process)
The frequency, format, and duration of conversations are agreed by each pair
You may participate as both a mentor and a mentee, depending on the topic and discussion
The Reciprocal Mentoring Guidelines are available to support conversations
There is no fixed structure, time commitment, or expectation around outcomes

Who is this for?

Reciprocal mentoring is open to:

Anyone working within a UK or Ireland Clinical Research Facility or Centre
Staff interested in reflection, shared learning, and professional development

You do not need to:

Be in a senior role
Be matched with someone in the same role, CRF, or speciality
Have prior mentoring experience

How to get involved

If you are interested in exploring reciprocal mentoring, you can start by reviewing the UKCRF Network Reciprocal Mentoring Guidelines, which explain what reciprocal mentoring is and how it works in practice
You can then use the Reciprocal Mentoring Directory to identify peers who have volunteered to take part in mentoring and contact them directly to explore whether a mentoring conversation may be helpful
If you have questions about reciprocal mentoring or the directory, please contact the Operations Team at [email protected]