Wellbeing and workplace support for SAS and LE doctors.
Working as a Specialist, Specialty, Associate Specialist (SAS) or Locally Employed (LE) doctor can bring both professional satisfaction and unique challenges. This page brings together wellbeing resources, behaviour guidance and support systems to help you feel safe, respected and supported in your role.
Wellbeing resources
SAS/LED-specific resources
General resources (all doctors)
Visit the RCOG’s supporting our doctors resources for further information and support on workplace issues and wellbeing
SAS Advocates
SAS advocates play a key role in promoting a positive working environment and supporting the wellbeing of SAS doctors.
To help employers and advocates understand their roles, NHS Employers and the BMA have produced the following resources:
Workplace Behaviour Champions
Each school/deanery has a Workplace Behaviour Champion helping to drive forward efforts to address undermining and bullying in the workplace.
The Champions are primarily a resource for doctors in training, offering independent advice and support around unacceptable behaviour in the workplace. They are also available to support SAS doctors and Locally Employed Doctors in their role.
If you are an SAS or LE doctor experiencing undermining or inappropriate behaviour, contact a Workplace Behaviour Champion as early as possible. If your local Champion works in your unit, you’re welcome to approach a Champion in a neighbouring deanery for a more independent perspective.
You can learn more about how the RCOG is improving workplace behaviours and dealing with undermining and bullying.
Induction support
A meaningful and appropriate induction is essential to ensuring SAS doctors and LEDs feel welcomed, valued and supported from day one. It is also a key recommendation in the SAS charter.
For further guidance, visit the SAS and LED induction page.
SAS Excellence in Development (SEiD) Recognition Award
NHS trusts in England can apply for the SEiD awards to demonstrate the support and development opportunities offered for SAS doctors, providing evidence of being a great place to work and how they support the recruitment and retention of SAS doctors to improve patient care.