Due to COVID-19 restrictions we have moved our programme of events and outreach online. Our programme of webinars is open to all and further details are available from the Webinar heading.

Candidates should note the following COVID guidance;

• As a consequence of UK and Irish Government restrictions we recommend candidate and mentor meetings be held online or by phone.

• Mentors are able to view their mentee’s application via the programme website and, if agreed between the candidate and mentor, suggest amendments and improvements. We encourage all candidates and mentors to take full advantage of this facility.

• Application submission deadlines remain in place as they provide a useful target for applicants to work to, as well as help co-ordinate assessor resources. However, COVID-19 restrictions have increased the challenges in coordinating mentor references, supporting documentation, and impacted on other types of support that applicants may be using.  The ARA is therefore happy to offer further support by extending submission deadlines. Any applicant who may miss a submission deadline by a few weeks or months should contact Chris Sheridan at the ARA and request a deadline extension, which will be agreed.

• Any candidate requiring additional support or help should contact the ARA.