GMC publishes resources to support victims of sexual misconduct
Resources including support for victims and survivors of sexual misconduct by doctors have been published by the GMC.
The GMC's new resource, 'what to do if you think you have been subject to sexual misconduct by a doctor', is intended for patients, those supporting them, and for doctors, medical students and other colleagues who may have been subject to unacceptable behaviour by doctors either within or outside of the workplace.
These resources were developed after working with victim and survivor advocacy groups, patient organisations, doctor representatives and other regulators and are part of a wider programme of work by the GMC to improve handling of sexual misconduct cases.
Charlie Massey, chief executive, GMC, said:
"Much has changed, for the better, in recent years. But it’s important for us to acknowledge the scope for improvements to the way we handle complaints about sexual abuse and misconduct.
"Our professional standards make it clearer than ever that there must be zero tolerance of any form of sexual misconduct.
A huge part of eradicating it is making sure those who experience it feel supported to speak up and tell someone. ‘These changes are aimed at better supporting victims and survivors, as well as colleagues and employers, to help them through the process of raising concerns.'
Dr Becky Cox is the co-founder of Surviving in Scrubs which is an organisation of doctors who are campaigning against misogyny in healthcare welcomed the new resource:
"We are very glad to see these documents produced by the GMC adding to the resources available for those affected by sexual misconduct, and for those with management responsibilities.
The resource for survivors is informative and will be valuable for individuals affected and who may be considering raising a concern. Guidance for employers and responsible officers provides clear information on sexual misconduct and processes which will help ensure the correct actions are taken when a concern is raised. We would encourage all doctors, managers and responsible officers to read these documents."
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