Improving workplace culture and behaviours

Dealing with undermining

Undermining and bullying behaviour has long been recognised as a problem for trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology (O&G), as shown by repeated General Medical Council (GMC) trainee surveys. O&G trainees report more undermining behaviour than any other medical specialty, which is a matter of concern.

A recent RCOG survey also identified undermining and bullying experienced by consultants, with 14% of the UK O&G consultant workforce saying they had been persistently bullied or undermined. The RCOG is committed to improving the workplace for the benefit of both staff and patients, and we want our doctors to feel valued and respected in their workplace.

The RCOG Workforce reports further outline the challenges faced by the O&G profession and the College’s commitments to addressing them.

The impact of workplace culture

Bullying and undermining can lead to a ‘blame and shame’ culture, defensive practise, high stress, burn-out and sickness which can subsequently result in rota gaps and high rates of attrition from specialty training. Creating a positive workplace culture is essential to supporting the wellbeing of doctors and ensuring high-quality care for patients. 

The RCOG is committed to fostering a supportive environment to address these issues and ensure high-quality care.

Other useful resources

• The RCOG’s practical, interactive and free-to-access eLearning resource on improving workplace behaviour aims to raise awareness of undermining and bullying in the workplace and illustrate ways to tackle the problem.
• The RCOG Trainees’ Committee has developed advice for trainees on dealing with undermining in the workplace