The Circle Mentoring Programme is a pilot initiative designed to support aspiring Clinical Psychologists that self-identify as being from Black, Asian and other racially minoritised (global majority) backgrounds. It provides one-off, group-based mentoring sessions ("Circles") led by mentors who share cultural or lived experience with mentees.

The programme is open to:

Mentees: Aspiring Clinical Psychologists from Global Majority backgrounds who are preparing for or considering the DClinPsy application.

Mentors: Qualified Clinical Psychologists and community members from Global Majority backgrounds who are interested in sharing knowledge and offering support.

No. Participation does not guarantee a place on the Lancaster DClinPsy programme. This is a positive action measure designed to offer peer support, insights, and improved networks for applicants. While the content is tailored to the Lancaster DClinPsy selection process, we hope the learning and connections will be relevant and helpful for applicants applying to programmes across the UK.

Each Circle is a facilitated 1.5-hour group session, including two mentors (one Clinical Psychologist and one Community Member). Participants can choose a Circle with a primary focus on:

• DClinPsy selection/interview skills, or
• Racialised identity

All Circles provide space for discussion, connection, and knowledge sharing. Regardless of the theme, all sessions will include a brief input on the DClinPsy selection process.

Facilitators (including members of the Lancaster DClinPsy team and the Comms group) will:

• Create a safe, inclusive and respectful space through clear contracting at the start of each session.
• Provide input on the Lancaster DClinPsy selection process for all participants, ensuring everyone receives useful and transparent guidance regardless of the Circle’s primary focus.

Mentors will:

• Share their career journeys, challenges faced, and strategies for navigating barriers in Clinical Psychology or community/workplace settings.
• Answer questions in smaller breakout groups, offering more personal and in-depth conversation.
• Provide insights into navigating the DClinPsy selection process and/or navigating racialised experiences in the profession.

Mentees will:

• Receive information about the DClinPsy selection/interview process (included in every session).
• Ask questions and engage with mentors in smaller, interactive breakout spaces.
• Gain peer support and build connections with others from similar backgrounds who are also pursuing Clinical Psychology.

Unlike ongoing mentoring schemes, the Circle Mentoring Project offers stand-alone, one-off sessions to maximise access and flexibility. The sessions centre the lived experiences of Global Majority participants, offering culturally humble, focused support and guidance in a shared group space.

No. Participation is free for all mentees. Mentees will also receive a voucher in recognition of their time and contribution. Mentors will be paid approximately £105 for their involvement. All participants will be asked to complete an evaluation form.

The briefing session is in October, and the Circles take place throughout November 2025.

You can complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form using the links above.

We’ll get in touch to confirm next steps and session details.

This is a pilot programme. We hope to gather feedback and learning from this first round to inform how similar support can be embedded or expanded in future positive action initiatives.

The Circle Mentoring Project is coordinated by a small steering group on the Lancaster University DClinPsy programme and has received input and feedback from Global Majority staff, trainees, and prospective applicants.