Being a locum can lead to feelings of isolation, so it is important that you remain connected in with others to maintain professionalism and for general wellbeing. The LMC offers the GP Support Scheme a confidential and independent counselling and mentor scheme for all GPs working in the area across the 5 LMCs. Alongside isolation you may struggle with work-related or personal stress which can lead to GPs experiencing problems such as burn-out or general unhappiness.
For more information visit our GP Support scheme page or contact Mariah Mulberry at the office 01772 863806.
To find ways to improve your mental health and wellbeing you can visit our wellbeing page.
The GP support scheme we offer is linked with NHS Practitioner Health Service.
Practitioner Health is a free, confidential NHS service for doctors across England with mental illness and addiction problems. The service can help with issues relating to a mental health concern, including stress or depression or an addiction problem, where these might affect work. To access this service email prac.health@nhs.net or call 0300 0303 300.
Sessional GP groups in Lancashire
The Lancashire and South Cumbria Sessional GP Group meet bi-monthly in Preston from 19:00 – 21:00. Guest speakers are often arranged followed by a business meeting covering issues relevant to Sessional GPs including appraisal and revalidation. All Sessional GPs are welcome. Please visit our Sessional GP get involved page for more information.
Support groups
Some of you have contacted the LMC regarding changes to working patterns that seem to have happened during the recent weeks in light of the pandemic.
To help you connect with other GPs you may want to join the following Facebook Groups:
You can also join the following Telegram group: Covid-19 for UK Health Professionals
(Telegram works similarly to WhatsApp - download the app and then search for the above group.)
RedWhale have a lot of useful free information on their website as do the BMJ.
BMA Sessional GPs Subcommittee
The sessional GPs committee is part of the BMA's GPC (general practitioners committee). They provide national representation for all salaried and locum GPs.