RCoA morale and welfare survey

The findings from the RCoA’s morale and welfare survey of anaesthetists in training featured in Saturday’s (11 Feb) Guardian, Sunday’s print version of the Observer (12 Feb) and the digital edition of the Independent. The survey explored a number of themes, including trainee reflections on feeling valued by employers and thoughts regarding morale and working conditions.

More than 2,300 anaesthetists in training completed the survey, which found that six out of seven – 85% – are at risk of becoming burned out. Long hours, concerns over patient safety, the disruption of working night shifts and long commutes were identified as key reasons for growing fatigue and disillusionment.

The comments and experiences of trainee anaesthetists from across the UK bring into sharp focus the enormous challenges facing the NHS. Your feedback provides the College with a wealth of information, helping us to understand your pressures and to better represent you moving forward. The data will also enhance the RCoA’s case as we seek to address the anaesthesia shortfall identified in the 2015 RCoA Medical Workforce Census.

Further analysis of the morale and welfare survey, including verbatim comments, can be found in February’s President’s Newsletter.