Introduction to the project
Parental and caring responsibilities can have an impact across all stages of surgical careers. The Royal College of Surgeons of England, following the publication of a review of diversity in leadership, has committed to a programme of work in this area and has commissioned the Nuffield Trust to explore the impact further and identify actions to address any challenges.
Why it’s important
Building and maintaining a diverse and sustainable workforce is one of the most important priorities for the NHS. But, throughout their initial work, the College has identified that people with parenting responsibilities can face significant challenges throughout their surgical career. Understanding these issues is vital for identifying actions to improving the participation, progression and experience of people with parental responsibilities in surgery, to help contribute to a thriving NHS workforce of the future.
What we'll do
Our work will include:
- reviewing national and local policy documents and research evidence from the UK and abroad;
- running an anonymous survey of those within a surgical career;
- conducting interviews with practising and trainee surgeons;
- holding focus groups with medical students and foundation doctors; and
- analysing data on the impact of maternity and paternity leave on career participation and progression.
How can you participate
We are running an anonymous survey to understand people’s experiences and perspectives, which we plan to close on 21 October 2022. If you are a practising or trainee surgeon, medical student or foundation doctor considering a career in surgery from across the UK, we would love to hear from you.
This survey has now closed.
Read the the Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) for the survey.
Project outputs
Findings from the research will be published in a Nuffield Trust report, which will be made available on our website. Please keep an eye out for updates from us and the College.
Timelines
The project began in June 2022 and will run until December 2022.