Understanding Sexual Misconduct
For a clear understanding of sexual misconduct, please review the definitions provided by the Working Party on Sexual Misconduct in Surgery (WPSMS).
Seeking Support: Important Steps
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual misconduct, you can seek support from these resources:
- NHS: Help After Rape and Sexual Assault
- Free legal advice for women in England and Wales facing sexual harassment at work: 020 7490 0152 line is not 24/7 (www.lawworks.org.uk)
- Rape Crisis England & Wales and Rape Crisis Scotland
- Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in England & Wales and Scotland, and Rape Crisis Centers in Ireland
Access to Psychological Support
For frontline workers, Frontline19 offers free therapy sessions, and the British Medical Association (BMA) provides free, confidential, 24/7 counselling and peer support services for doctors and medical students. Additional advice and support for the LGBT community can be found at gov.uk and LGBT.ie in Ireland.
You Are Not Alone
Surviving in Scrubs: An initiative started by doctors with firsthand experience, Surviving in Scrubs provides a platform for victims of sexual abuse to share their stories. You can find additional resources at The Survivors Trust.
Advice for Those Receiving Reports of Sexual Misconduct
The WPSMS Support Guidance for educators and Managers can be accessed here.
This document provides guidance on supporting someone who confides in you. If you witness sexual misconduct, Protect offers confidential advice on whistleblowing, and general information is available at National Guardian.
Additional Resources:
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