Reflective Returns (Parental Leave) (RTT09SEP26)

AvailabilityPlaces available (course only available for users whose main occupation is foundation training or general practice training (st1-st4) or core specialty training (st1-st4) or higher specialty training (st3-st8))  Remove from basket
SubjectSupported Return to Training (SuppoRTT)
DescriptionA facilitated reflective practice group for doctors, dentists, and public health practitioners in training planning a return or recently returned from parental leave. Delivered in a structured, confidential format, over a fixed number of sessions, the groups will provide protected space to explore professional identity, confidence and transition challenges while fostering peer support and compassionate community in returns to training.
Additional information

This cohort-based programme runs fortnightly for four to six sessions, beginning prior to return where possible and continuing into the early months back in training. Groups are facilitated by trained leaders and follow a structured Balint-informed model: one participant presents an experience, the group reflects while the presenter listens, and discussion focuses on relational and emotional aspects rather than problem-solving.

Separate cohorts are anticipated for parental leave and health-related absence to support shared context, while remaining responsive to individual circumstances.

Attendance supports SuppoRTT engagement and may contribute to evidence of reflective practice within the trainee portfolio.

Sessions are confidential and psychologically informed. They are not therapy, nor a forum for formal employment dispute resolution; concerns requiring escalation will be signposted appropriately.

Returners will need to commit to attending all sessions.

VenueVirtual (Platform TBC), - Virtual  View details
6 SessionsSession 1:   Wed 9 Sep 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
Session 2:   Wed 23 Sep 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
Session 3:   Wed 7 Oct 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
Session 4:   Wed 4 Nov 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
Session 5:   Wed 18 Nov 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
Session 6:   Wed 2 Dec 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
LecturersDr Helen Speechley, Dr Susan Stokes & Dr Emily Williams  View details
Target audience

This group is for residents who are due to return from parental leave before or around the course dates (See above for the course dates.).

SuppoRTT courses are restricted to resident doctors and dentists, and public health registrars who are taking time out of training or who have returned to training within the last 3 months.

Mandatory: Dentist, or Doctor, or Public Health Professional

Course styleWorkshop
CateringNot applicable
CPD points0.000
CostNo charge
Aims

To provide a structured, psychologically safe reflective space that supports training grade clinicians during transition back to training, enhancing wellbeing, professional identity development, and compassionate practice.

Objectives
  • To facilitate structured Balint-style reflective discussion around return-to-training experiences.
  • To reduce isolation through cohort-based peer support.
  • To support development of reflective capacity aligned with professional guidance.
  • To model compassionate, relational approaches to clinical and professional challenges.
Learning outcomes

By the end of the programme participants will be able to:

  • Reflect more confidently on the emotional and relational aspects of clinical practice
  • Articulate themes relating to professional identity, confidence and transition
  • Recognise shared experiences that reduce isolation and imposter feelings
  • Identify appropriate support pathways where additional help is required