Joint surgical colleges statement on junior doctors contract

It is disappointing that we now find ourselves in a situation where a contract will be imposed on the junior doctor workforce in spite of all the goodwill shown by the negotiating parties.

Over the years, not enough has been done in the NHS to take seriously juniors’ concerns with their training and working conditions. We have previously welcomed the number of non-contractual initiatives that the BMA and the Government agreed, including plans to accelerate training for those who have taken time out for maternity and other leave. It is also welcome news that an independent review will be commissioned into how the NHS can reduce and eliminate the gender pay gap in medicine. The surgical colleges offer to play their part to support these plans and to continue to work to improve surgical training.

In the current environment there is a risk that NHS organisations become distracted by Britain’s post-Brexit settlement as well as the broader financial challenges facing health and social care. But now more than ever we must not lose sight of the need to improve morale among all of our NHS staff for the ultimate benefit of patients.

Miss Clare Marx, President, RCS England

Mr Michael Lavelle-Jones, President, RCS Edinburgh

Professor David Galloway, President, RCPS Glasgow

A PDF version of the letter can be viewed here

Notes to editors

The Royal College of Surgeons of England is a professional membership organisation and registered charity, which exists to advance surgical standards and improve patient care.

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