There is no place for sexual misconduct in surgery

18 September 2023 (Last updated: 9 Oct 2023 14:36)

Please note that this news article contains references to information and experiences that are distressing and may be triggering to some.

Sexual misconduct or harassment of any sort is unacceptable in the workplace and ENT UK fully supports RCS England in welcoming the Working Party on Sexual Misconduct in Surgery report Breaking the Silence: Addressing sexual misconduct in healthcare.  ENT UK also recognises and supports the statement from The Federation of Surgical Specialty Associations which represents the ten GMC recognised surgical specialties.

ENT UK firmly believe that our profession must forge a welcoming and inclusive environment for all surgeons and our colleagues.  The testimonies of sexual harassment and assault have helped to expose the depth of the problems that it is our shared responsibility as surgeons to overcome.  It is crucial that we ensure that such behaviour is not tolerated in any corner of our profession.  There can be no place in surgery for sexual harassment, assault or other inappropriate sexual conduct. 

We applaud the courage of those who have come forward and thank them for their testimony.  The victims of such behaviour often feel unable to report their experiences to their NHS Trusts – this alone demonstrates the imbalances within society and our institutions.  ENT UK is committed to doing what we can to improve this culture. 

If you experience or witness sexual harassment or assault in the workplace, if you feel able, please report it through your hospital procedures and, if appropriate, to the police. You may find it helpful to seek support from a mentoring network outside your training region.

Third-party help and support:

• https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault/
• https://www.gov.uk/guidance/victim-and-witness-services
• https://www.wpsms.org.uk/support.html