Support for Trainees

Always make sure to look into what your own department and trust can do to help you if you are struggling with any personal issues, they can be very supportive and there are often lots of resources which you have not heard about!

NHS Workforce & Training:

• Single Point of Contact: set up a 1:1 confidential appointment with a senior adviser from the professional support unit about any difficulties or dilemmas.

• Supported Return to Training: a programme designed to support trainees re-entering training after a period of absence.

• London Deanery Professional Support Unit: the PSU is a free service independent of Specialty Schools, Training Programmes or Trusts, and can offer confidential and impartial support or advice.

• BMA Wellbeing & Support: free, confidential helpline as well as many ways to find support online, on the phone and in your local area.

• Help Me I'm A Doctor: charity-funded movement which can financially help doctors in genuine need to get their lives and careers back on track.

• Tea & Empathy: UK-based Facebook group for peer support amongst healthcare professionals (you may post anonymously by requesting from the moderators).

• Ergonomic Microscope: Need of the Hour: an article with recommendations to prevent musculoskeletal issues from microscope use (see figure 6).

Mental Health:

• HEE Psychological Support Page: information and signposting to helpful organisations about psychological support if you are a doctor in training.

• Practitioner Health: a free, confidential NHS primary care mental health and addiction service with expertise in treating health & care professionals via videocall.

• What Works Wellbeing: how to improve wellbeing.

• Mental Health Foundation Publications: handbooks on improving your wellbeing and emotional resilience in the workspace.