As you say, Steven, best get in touch with a local CIPD Branch if you're looking to be mentored for straightforward career development via the Member Mentoring programme.
Phyllis ... worth also noting that for anyone facing barriers getting into the workforce or developing in the workforce we do have CIPD Trust programmes specifically focused on supporting you - e.g. parent returners, young people, etc.
We also have our Aspiring HRD programme but that's closed for applications currently and due to open in the new year (again with a focus on those facing barriers to progression and from under-represented groups). You can register interest via the dedicated webpage and if you scroll down you can watch a webinar that CIPD hosted last year featuring a mentee/mentor talking about the programme. This is a very popular programme, with more applications than places available and we aim to run two cohorts a year.
https://cipdtrust.org/what-we-do/develop-in-the-people-profession/aspiring-hr-directors/
