Connecting and developing talent across health and social care.
A national platform empowering NHS staff to take charge of their career development.
In a sector as complex and dynamic as health and social care, developing leaders with the right skills and behaviours is essential. Talent Timebanking, supported by NHS England and regional Heads of Talent, was created to meet this need. The platforms aim is to foster a more inclusive, transparent and self-directed approach to career development.
The challenge: transforming talent management in a diverse, evolving sector
Health and social care is undergoing continual transformation, and so too must its leadership. The traditional approaches to talent development often fail to address the systemic barriers faced by under-represented groups.
Karen Chummun, Head of Talent for London, recognised the need for a new model - one that prioritises fairness, flexibility and self-determination. Talent Timebanking is rooted in the principles of timebanking, where one hour of contribution equals one credit, regardless of a person’s background, seniority or role.
This model challenges conventional hierarchies and empowers individuals to:
- Personalise their career journeys.
- Access development opportunities that reflect their aspirations.
- Build networks of mutual support and learning.
Our solution: Made Open’s peer network platform
The Made Open platform offered the ideal infrastructure for this national initiative. Built with collaboration and equity in mind, our technology supports the entire talent ecosystem; from discovery and connection to participation and recognition.
We know that transparent and equitable mechanisms for offering bespoke support to staff from under-represented groups are needed across the whole of health and social care. That’s why we built a national platform, based on timebanking principles, dedicated entirely to talent management.
Karen Chummun, Head of Talent – London, NHS England
What sets Talent Timebanking apart?
A fair exchange system
Timebanking ensures that every contribution is valued equally, creating a culture of reciprocity, learning and growth.
Customised career dvpt
Members can select from a variety of initiatives and support opportunities tailored to their personal goals.
Equity by design
By removing bias from the equation, the platform levels the playing field for people of all backgrounds.
Early success and future potential
Though still in its early stages, Talent Timebanking is already making significant strides:
- Successful pilot in the London region.
- Expansion underway in six other regions.
- Strong user feedback highlighting accessibility and relevance.
- A growing, diverse talent pool for health and social care.
- Passed robust DPA and DPIA assessments.
Looking ahead
Talent Timebanking represents a bold reimagining of how professional growth can be supported in the public sector. With an inclusive foundation and a scalable model, the platform is laying the groundwork for a more diverse, collaborative and resilient workforce.
Overall, working with Made Open is a great experience. The team is very supportive and engaged. They're great collaborators and I feel that my suggestions are always taken on board. We want to position Talent Timebanking as a thought leader in skills exchanges, network-building and workforce innovation in Health and Social Care.
Halima Chowe, Senior Programme Lead: Talent Timebanking