Conclusions
Whilst a number of positive initiatives were developed to support medical staff throughout the pandemic, a small number of reported that they were not offered wellbeing support by their organisations during this period. For those that did receive offers of wellbeing support, almost half felt it was satisfactory. Given that all have been working intensively during this period, there is perhaps a need for universal wellbeing support for medical staff during this time.
Gynaecological activities, gynaecology training and general training opportunities for medical staff have not been restored to the levels they were before March 2020. This lack of gynaecology training in particular is a considerable cause for concern.
Recommendations
1. Recognise the positive news regarding repatriation of staff to maternity services, whilst promoting the stance that the RCOG remains staunchly in favour of retaining all medical staff within those services to provide safe care to women and their families throughout wave 2. Communication to Chief Executives, Maternity transformation safety champions in Trusts and Fellows, Members and trainees will follow.
2. Raise concern nationally (via the maternity transformation programme and NHS England, Wales, Scotland and NI) and via the communication outlined above that not all services are offering wellbeing support in their organisation. Of the remainder who were offered support only 50% were satisfied. We will also consider signposting colleagues via the RCOG website to NHS and college resources.
3. Escalate concerns regarding elective gynaecology provision to NHS services and leadership.
4. Work with Heads of schools and deaneries in the 4 nations to support progression of trainees, recognising the significant impact that the pandemic has played on gynaecological training opportunities.
