The findings came as The Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) launched the next phase of its surgeon peer-support improvement programme (SUPPORT2).

Tim Lane, president of RCS England, said: ‘SUPPORT demonstrates RCS England's commitment to helping surgical organisations build supportive and learning-centred cultures following adverse events. We hope that seeking support becomes a normal part of everyday professional surgical practice rather than something surgeons should feel reluctant to do.'

Research published in the Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, found over 88% (88.1%) of surgeons surveyed believed there was a need for surgeon-specific peer support following an adverse event, while just under 25% (24.5%) agreed that existing support in their trust was adequate. More than half (58.5%) also agreed  showing vulnerability as a surgeon carried a stigma. 

Twenty-one site teams across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are taking part in SUPPORT2, including 16 new sites and five returning from SUPPORT1.

Professor Gozie Offiah, chair of the MPS Foundation, said: ‘In a profession where the stakes are extraordinarily high, adverse patient events can have a profound and lasting impact on surgeons. As a former surgeon myself, I understand the importance of having access to the right support at the right time, along with the barriers that can prevent clinicians from seeking help. SUPPORT2 is a vital step towards ensuring that no surgeon faces the aftermath of an adverse event alone. The MPS Foundation is proud to support this important initiative and help to make it as accessible as possible to surgical teams.'