SEC/11/14

Report from the Psychiatric Trainees’ Committeefor Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland Executive Committee Meeting

27 February 2014

General PTC issues

1)Bed shortages in psychiatric hospitals

Following particular concern in the south east of England, the PTC is undertaking work jointly with other College groups (e.g. carers) to clarify the extent of the problem in order to raise public awareness, through the use of a survey. The aim is to put pressure on Westminster to increase funding for mental health (and inpatient beds in particular). It is unclear the extent to which this issue is relevant in Scotland but the survey will hopefully identify any areas of concern.

2)Four Nations Training Project

Spearheaded by Carol Wilson, this project aims to summarise the differences and similarities in the structure of the NHS, mental health services, legislation and training in each of the four UK nations. The aim of this project is to assist trainees from across the UK in understanding these issues regardless of their place of work, and also to help promote recruitment to Scotland/Wales/NI.

3)Changes to recruitment to psychiatric training

Following the centralisation of the interview process, the PTC discussed the possibility of individuals from more distal areas (e.g. Scotland, South West England) being disadvantaged by interviews being centralised to Manchester and London. Some reassurances have been given that distances travelled will be adjusted for and (minimal) travel expenses will be payable; however some concerns remain.

4)Foundation doctors event and Pathfinder Fellowships

A large event was held for foundation trainees to encourage them to consider applying to train in Psychiatry at the College, involving high profile speakers. This may be something that the College in Scotland may wish to consider.

There were three Scottish pathfinders this year; the RCPsychiS may wish to consider doing something to support the interests of unsuccessful Scottish applicants in order that their lack of success does not dissuade them from applying for psychiatric training in the future.

5)GMC Survey

A presentation was given to PTC representatives by Kevin Connor from the GMC about responses to the national training survey. Of particular note was the fact that a number of trainees used this as their only opportunity to raise patient concerns in the workplace. The potential risks to trainees of taking such an approach (i.e. by not raising such issues locally) were highlighted, given the clear obligations to report such safety concerns immediately as mentioned in the Francis Report.

PTC Working Group feedback

1)Examinations

The group has completed a large survey of trainee and consultant psychiatrists’ views about a proposed exit examination. A paper has been submitted to the Psychiatric Bulletin for further consideration. Further work to ensure that trainees are closely consulted on this matter is being undertaken. The working group also intends to further lobby the College financial officers regarding examination fees.

2)Welfare

The subgroup are undertaking work looking at undermining and bullying of trainees, and raising patient safety concerns.

Thoughts about possible training events provided through the College in Scotland

  • Interview skills & CV writing (for ST4 posts and consultant posts)
  • Neuropsychiatry
  • Psychopharmacology and therapeutics update
  • Physical health update
  • Court report writing skills for non-forensic psychiatrists
  • Psychotherapy awareness training (cf the sorts of courses run by the Tavistock Clinic in London)
  • Public health for psychiatrists
  • Media training

Dr Nick Hughes