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.