RCS statement on sexual misconduct in surgery report

Mr Tim Mitchell, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, said:  

“Let me be clear – there is no place in our operating theatres, or anywhere in the NHS, for sexual misconduct. NHS trusts need to take a long, hard look at whether their policies and procedures for sexual misconduct are fit for purpose, as do regulating bodies. And then, where able, and supported to, surgeons may feel more comfortable calling out behaviour and reporting it.

“The Royal College of Surgeons of England is taking this issue incredibly seriously. We will not tolerate such behaviour in our ranks. I will personally be asking our Council members and leading surgeons to take that message back to their organisations.”

RCS England is committed to a zero-tolerance approach to sexual misconduct, and we will actively work to eradicate this behaviour in surgery and healthcare. Find more information about our resources and next steps.