Here to Support Your Training Journey!
We understand that training can sometimes be tough. Just remember, the Training Programme Directors are always here and happy to help. Whether you need a guiding hand or a listening ear, feel free to reach out.
To make things easier, we’ve outlined a range of support services available for you. Whether it’s issues related to your training, financial concerns, or health matters, rest assured – help is always at hand. In addition to the training-specific support from NHSE, we’ve also gathered information on various support organisations that are dedicated to assisting medical staff like you.
Professional Support Unit
(PSU)
The PSU is primarily dedicated to supporting the progression of postgraduate medical and dental trainees through their training. Access to the service is self-referral only, trainees can contact the service or fill in the online application form.
The PSU can offer support with many training and personal issues including:
- Psychological/emotional difficulties/stress/burnout
- Exam preparation and support with fail outcomes
- Learning disability assessment
- Struggling with clinical workload
- Difficulty with colleague
- Difficulty addressing problems in current team/unit/system
- Advice regarding progression of training/career pathway
- Demands/pressures related to life away from work (including family, finances, friends)
- Personal ill-health
Supported Return to Training
(SuppoRTT)
Returning to training after a period of absence can be a daunting and difficult time. Trainees may take time out of programme for many reasons, such as out-of-programme experience, parental leave, health issues, career breaks, or even suspension while under investigation. Time out of clinical practice can impact on a clinician’s confidence and skills.
SuppoRTT can be accessed via the London & KSS website. It can offer the following services for returning doctors:
- A period of enhanced supervision
- Funding for a period of supernumerary time
- Online and face-to-face refresher courses and simulation training
- Mentoring or professional coaching
- Conferences, workshops and webinars
- Online learning resources
- Funding for other courses or training, as individually required
URGENT SUPPORT
- BMA 24/7 helpline – call 0330 123 1245
- Practitioner Health Programme – text NHSPH to 85258
- Samaritans – call 116 223.
SUPPORT FOR YOUR HEALTH
COUNSELLING
DISABILITY SUPPORT
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
LEGAL ISSUES
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- GMC support
GMC information and advice for doctors who have concerns about their own health. - Guides and resources for doctors who receive a complaint
NHS Practitioner Health guidance for doctors facing a complaint - Mental health toolkit
Practical advice and tips to support better mental health. - You Okay, Doc?
Mental health and wellbeing support for doctors. - Second victim support
Guidance to help with the impact of patient safety incidents. - National GP Retention Scheme
Financial and educational support to help doctors, who might otherwise leave the profession, remain in clinical general practice. - Doctors in Distress
An independent UK charity which aims to protect mental health and prevent suicide in healthcare workers.