Specialty, associate specialist and specialist (SAS) doctors are one of the NHS workforce's greatest strengths. Every day, SAS doctors bring great expertise, sound judgement and clinical excellence to patients and clinical teams.

Following SAS Week, it is right that we continue to celebrate these doctors for the leadership, innovation and capability they bring to services across England.

Recognition matters, but it must be matched by practical action. SAS doctors deserve rewarding careers, clear opportunities to progress and the certainty to plan their futures in the NHS. That is why, over the past year, this Government has taken important steps to support and champion this vital workforce.

We launched the SAS Excellence in Development Award, recognising organisations that invest in their SAS doctors and empower them to develop, lead and thrive.

We also introduced and funded the SAS Eligibility and Permanency Framework, helping eligible doctors move from fixed term contracts onto permanent specialty doctor contracts. We expect employers to implement these changes, as the framework offers greater security and supports more doctors the confidence to build long-term careers in the NHS.

Throughout the past year, we have also worked closely with the BMA's SAS Committee, engaging constructively to identify improvements that make a real difference to doctors' professional lives and careers. This includes work towards a more standardised, streamlined and predictable pathway for experienced specialty doctors to develop and progress to specialist roles as outlined in the 10-Year Plan, drawing on learning from Scotland and Wales.

That partnership matters. Lasting change depends on listening to SAS doctors and ensuring national commitments improve their working lives.

SAS Doctors Week was not only a chance to say thank you, but it must also renew our ambition. We want SAS doctors to feel valued for the contribution they make now, confident about the opportunities ahead and supported to fulfil their potential. The NHS should be a welcoming and inclusive place where SAS doctors are able to practice their specialties for the benefit of patients without the fear of harassment or bullying.

SAS doctors are here to stay and are a crucial part of our workforce, and we want to ensure they have every opportunity to excel and progress in their careers. 

While there is more to do, I am proud of the progress we have made together – and are determined to build on it.