Returning to work after time out can be difficult and stressful. Any trainee who has had at least 3 months out of training for ANY reason (parental leave, research, ill health, family etc) is entitled to a supported return to training. There is a lot of work going on within Health Education England to improve the experience of traininees returning to clinical work to help ensure a safe and supported experience.

The Supported Return to Training (SuppoRTT) initiative aims to support trainees with their confidence, skills and knowledge so that they can safely and confidently return to practice within their training programme.

Before going out of training

The deanery now offers ‘going out of training day’ aimed at addressing all the issues you may face during time out, how to prepare for your return and lots of practical advice regarding managing HR, pay and financial implications of time out, SuppoRTT and planning your return and how to apply for LTFT working.

The next session is: Monday 16th December

Before Returning to Training

If you have had 3 months out of clinical practice for ANY reason, you should complete the following process prior to your return to work:

• Meet with your Educational Supervisor or Training Programme Director about 6-8 weeks before you return to work.

• Discuss any additional needs (there is funding for a supernummery period if needed), courses to attend (SuppoRTT simulation sessions) and any additional needs.

• Complete a ‘Return to Training Pre-Return form' with your ES, access form here.

• Return the forms to your TPD and to HEE Thames Valley, email address on the website above.

• Your forms will be sent to your Head of School and your employing Trust so that your return can be planned effectively. This, sadly, does not mean HR/Med staffing will act on them, approach them separately with your return to work date.

• Once back at work a few weeks, meet with your ES and ensure you have the right amount of support.

Any problems with your return to work contact your SuppoRTT rep:

Hannah Potter h.potter@doctors.org.uk

Professional Coaching

The Deanery now offers those returning to work 3 professional development coaching sessions in the three months before and six months after returning to work. We can not recommend these enough. You will need to complete the SuppoRTT forms (link above) and submit to the deanery, then email srtt.tv@hee.nhs.uk and request the sessions.

Courses available for ICM trainees

ICM Return Practice Simulation Course, Royal Berks Hospital, Tuesday 15th October 2019 and Monday 13th Janurary 2020

A great re-introduction to managing sick patients in a safe, supportive and understanding environment. Talks on research missed recently, re-familiarisation with clinical skills and meeting other trainees in a similar situation. Runs 3-4 times a year.

Anaesthetic Return to Practice Simulation Course, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, JANUARY 29th 2019

As above but directed more at anaesthetic skills, open to ICM and ED trainees also. FREE childcare places available. For more information.