PURPOSE:
The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Syndeo Leadership Programme is designed to enhance leadership capabilities among senior clinical leaders (Band 7) in the UK. The programme addresses critical leadership needs highlighted in national reports (Ockenden 2022, Kirkup 2022) and ICM principles of midwifery leadership, focusing on self as a leader, leading teams and the impact of these on culture and safety. Using Kirkpatrick's Model of Evaluation, the study assesses the programme's sustained impact on leadership behaviours and maternity team cultures.

DISCUSSION:
A longitudinal evaluation using Kirkpatrick's Model of Evaluation assesses participants from 25 maternity units over 12-24 months. Data collection survey includes open and closed ended questions. Thematic analysis of qualitative and quantitative responses measure sustained impact against the programme aims and immediate post-programme surveys.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
Initial findings indicate high participant satisfaction with 93% reporting enhanced learning through networking and practical application. The presentation will include the final results of the longitudinal evaluation, but initial emerging themes suggest: Opportunities, Challenges and Applying Learning: 1) Self awareness and personal growth: Self discovery was a cornerstone valued by participants, but its intensity occasionally pushed participants into uncharted emotional territory, with fringe cases exposing raw vulnerability 2) Practical Considerations: Travel was the most cited challenge. Responses ranged from mild inconvenience to a significant barrier, reflecting differing tolerances. Travel intersected with reimbursement issues, time allocation and personal circumstances 3) Professional development: Validation through shared context amplified impact. 4) Enhanced Decision-Making and Situational Awareness: Participants reported increased confidence in managing conflict and facilitating change

KEY MESSAGE:
The RCM's Syndeo Leadership Programme fosters transformative leadership among senior clinical midwives, driver safer more effective maternity services through sustained behavioural and culture change. The programme has real potential to be applicable to other maternity services outside of the UK as it aligns with the ICM's principles of midwifery leadership. Poster session 4 (Group B)