Possibilities Beyond Limits (PBL) is a transformational leadership programme, open to those working in health and care who are aiming for senior roles.
PBL aims to breakdown barriers, inspire confidence and increase representation of Black, Asian, ethnically diverse, disabled and neurodiverse individuals who continue to be underrepresented at senior levels by helping them to achieve a leadership role (band 8a and above).
While designed to address underrepresentation, the programme is open to all aspiring leaders from health and social care employed in Local Authority, NHS, Primary Care, voulntary, community, faith or charity organisations (VCFSE).
Why join PBL?
- CPD-certified for your professional development
- UK-wide and international mentoring opportunities
- Innovative workshops, including AI and strategic stretch assignments
- A supportive network of peers and senior leaders
- Proven impact: 94% of participants reported improved networking and collaboration skills
- Expanding recognition: By 2026, over 100 participants will have completed the programme
Michelle Johnson, Temporary Staffing & E-Roster Manager:
“The PBL programme has been incredibly valuable, helping me work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and deepening my understanding of neurodiversity and inclusion. The sessions were highly informative, offering new perspectives and practical skills I’ve applied both personally and professionally. While balancing responsibilities made it challenging at times, the experience strengthened my resilience and adaptability.”
Hear from our PBL graduates
Check out these videos explaining how PBL has help our graduates grow.
Applications
We would encourage applications from all professionals at middle-level grades (equivalent of NHS Band 5 or above), who are eager to progress to senior roles. If you aspire to lead, and are part of an underrepresented group, this programme is definitely for you.
The programme is open to all eligible health and care workers within the Birmingham and Solihull ICS from Primary Care, NHS Trusts (UHB, BSMHFT, BWC, BCHC, ROH), Birmingham City Council, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and the VCFSE, to apply.
Please check your organisation for terms and conditions and with your line manager before applying.
Places in the PBL programme are limited and will be allocated based on the following criteria:
- Commitment to personal and professional growth
- A demonstrated interest in leadership and advancing within your field
- Alignment with the programme’s goal to enhance diversity in leadership
To be considered for the PBL programme, you must:
- Complete Part 1 (Personal Statement) before moving on to Part 2. This can be written or recorded, with written approval from you and your manager.
- Complete Part 2 (ICS Staff Offer Stretch Assignment Proposal). This can be written or recorded.
- Be available to commit 85 to 105 hours over 12 months for programme activities, including workshops, mentoring sessions and a group stretch assignment.
Please note: PBL cannot be undertaken in conjunction with other programmes, courses and/or apprenticeships.
How to apply
To apply for Cohort 5, please carefully read the supporting information and complete the application form. Please do let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments or support, and ensure you submit your application by the date advertised to the PBL email:
We look forward to your application and to supporting you on your leadership journey!
PBL Timetable
Cohort 5 begins on 4 March 2026.
It is a 12-month programme and involves in-person classroom/workshop time, usually 1 day per month.
You can find dates and times of the sessions within the Application Form Pack.
The PBL team make every effort to avoid clashing workshops with school holidays (for example no sessions are held in August) and bank holidays, however please be aware you are expected to meet with your assignment group outside of scheduled class time in addition to the advertised dates, to work on your strectch assignment.