New GMC survey gives fresh insight into training as a doctor in the UK

A new General Medical Council (GMC) survey has provided updated insight into doctors’ experiences in UK training environments, revealing how supervision, workload and organisational culture continue to shape professional development — and influence exposure to fitness to practise concerns.

The findings show broadly positive views of clinical supervision and educational support, though variation persists across specialties and employers. The GMC notes that inconsistent supervision can increase the likelihood of mistakes, complaints or referrals, particularly in high‑pressure settings. Trainees also reported ongoing challenges linked to rota gaps, workload intensity and limited access to senior decision‑makers. These pressures mirror themes seen in fitness to practise data, where environmental factors often contribute to concerns being raised.

The survey indicates gradual improvement in psychological safety, with more trainees feeling able to raise issues locally. A stronger speaking‑up culture is recognised as a protective factor that helps resolve concerns early, reducing escalation to formal fitness to practise processes. While the survey does not directly measure disproportionality, it forms part of the evidence base informing the GMC’s work to address persistent disparities affecting doctors from minority ethnic backgrounds and those who qualified outside the UK.

The regulator’s latest fitness to practise statistics show more than 10,000 enquiries about doctors in 2024, a 7% increase on the previous year. Many of these concerns stem from communication issues, workplace strain or systemic factors rather than individual misconduct. The GMC says the new survey will support ongoing efforts to improve fairness, strengthen employer decision‑making and expand support for doctors involved in concerns.