6791 Step up/step back

Objectives Over a quarter (n = 34) of Wessex paediatric trainees (n = 134) take approved time out of training or are on maternity leave. In this region, early step up onto the tier 2 rota is at ST3. It was evident there was an audience who would benefit from a structured, supportive return to work and step up course. There had previously been a generic course but the feedback proved the course needed updating.The aim of the survey was to illicit what trainees felt they needed terms of support, both clinically and emotionally along with their educational needs at differing time points in their career. Methods An initial survey was undertaken in Jan 2023 to retrospectively review trainees (ST2–6) experiences of the original step up/step back course.The results of the initial survey (n = 34) were analysed via google forms and shared with a focused group of trainees along with course leaders in March 2023. Pie charts, graphs and written feedback were analysed. A new revised course was launched in July 2023. There were 11 participants, a mix of trainees returning from maternity leave, time out of training or stepping up along with international medical graduates. All 11 were surveyed post course and the results reviewed (n = 9). Results The initial survey showed 56% found the original course helpful. When asked what is the most challenging factor about being a new registrar, 'decision making' was the top answer. Most ST2 jobs are sub speciality jobs with less exposure to common paediatric conditions further limiting the exposure to the essential skills required to be a junior registrar in a busy district general hospital. Nearly 50% felt COVID impacted or may have impacted their exposure to common paediatric conditions in turn affecting their confidence in stepping up as registrar. The overall feedback showed that trainees who were stepping up, felt a course addressing leadership, delegation, clinics and managing juniors along with managing the hospital at night would be beneficial. For those returning to training after time out, the most important aspect was that they had a space to voice their concerns and anxieties around parenthood. The most prominent concerns for trainees returning post maternity leave was breastfeeding. 100% of participants who attended the new revised course found it helpful, due to SIM scenarios being focused on common paediatric conditions, leadership and delegation skills along with discussions around anxieties. The course was held over one day with different groups allocated to separate workshops based on their stage of training/life. Conclusion The new course has been very well received. In order to maximise trainee support in anticipation of stepping up onto the registrar rota, an extra day in conjunction with the course will be facilitated as part of our regional monthly mandatory teaching for ST2/3s. For those trainees returning to work post maternity leave and hoping to continue breastfeeding, the head of the medical directorate has sent up a working group to improve the lives of those returning to work post maternity leave.