The RCP has today published a letter outlining how clinical academic trainees should be supported to return to research work, while ensuring the NHS remains adequately equipped to respond to the pandemic.
The letter highlights the need for additional funding and time to complete their research work, which may be longer than their redeployment to full time clinical care. It also emphasises the importance of flexible approaches, taking into account individual circumstances.
The letter has been sent to the Association of Medical Research Charities, National Institute for Health Research, NHS Employers and the RCP’s Post Graduate Deans Liaison Group. We will work with these organisations and the wider research community to ensure trainees receive clarity in the coming weeks and months.
A full copy of the letter can be viewed here.
RCP academic vice president Professor Cheng-Hock Toh said:
"COVID-19 has seen all parts of the health workforce rise to the challenge, with clinical academics being no exception. Many have stepped up to work on the frontline to help the NHS cope, and we now need to offer clarity about how they can be supported to transition back to their vital research work.
"Support for Out of Programme academic trainees to have more time to complete their research is particularly vital, especially for those coming up to points of career progression. The approach from HEE and major funding bodies has been very positive so far, and we look forward to working together to deliver speedy solutions."
