PRISM Network Buddy Scheme

We’re excited to pilot a PRISM Network Buddy Scheme, to help PRISMs connect and build a sense of community.

This is not formal mentoring, it is an opportunity to talk in a safe space and support each other.

Who should take part?

The PRISM Network Buddy Scheme pilot is open, initially, to all PRISMs attending the PRISM conference in person. We welcome participants from diverse backgrounds and at different career stages, valuing the range of experiences and perspectives this brings.

This scheme is for anyone interested in building supportive connections within the PRISM community. Whether you want to exchange practical tips, celebrate successes, or simply have a safe space to discuss challenges, your participation is welcome.

What will happen?

Buddies will be paired for one year.

At the conference, there will be a chance to meet in person. Pairs will discuss how often to catch up (most likely online) and what each hopes to get out of the partnership.

We are also planning online midpoint catch-up and reflection sessions.

While we suggest meeting about once a month, you and your buddy can decide what works best for you. We will provide guidance, but the focus is on your own priorities and building a supportive connection.

1st meeting (in-person)	19th November 2025
Nov 2025 - Feb 2026	Buddies meet as agreed (eg. online)
Mid-point catch up (online)	March 2026 (date TBC)
Reflection session (online)	June 2026 (date TBC)

How can I sign up, and how will I be matched?

Registration for the PRISM Network Buddy Scheme is optional and done through the PRISM conference registration formLink opens in a new window. As part of the scheme, you can provide information about what you hope to gain from participating. Free-text boxes will allow you to share what you would like to learn from others and what others could learn from you.

By completing these sections, you agree that we may use AI to help match you with a buddy based on your responses. The goal is to create pairs who can support each other effectively.

To help generate compatible pairs, the information you provide in the free-text boxes (including none of your registration data) will be inputted into a secure AI tool (Microsoft Co-Pilot) where data is kept in-house. The AI will produce a suggested pairing table based on shared interests and complementary experiences.

We recognise that AI tools can reflect biases present in their training data. To ensure fairness, all suggested pairings will be reviewed by PRISM committee members, who will check for potential biases and make adjustments where needed.

Can I opt out?