Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust has introduced dedicated on-call parking spaces for resident doctors at one of its main sites, with plans to roll this out to 5 more locations.

It’s part of a highly practical approach to making day-to-day working conditions better for resident doctors. On-call facilities have been upgraded so that resident doctors have access to hot food and lockers 24/7 at each main on call site, and kitchens with microwaves, hot water, tea and coffee when working extended hours.

And the wider working environment is being improved. Each main trust site has a dedicated resource room, with space to relax and study, and access to kitchen and shower facilities. The aim is to provide a more supportive and practical working environment during busy shifts.

Training and development are also being addressed. There’s a focus on reducing unnecessary repetition in mandatory and statutory training and resident doctors can complete elements of their training flexibly, including from home during inductions. They can schedule protected self-directed learning time with their consultant clinical supervisors and dedicated training space is available either on site or at the 4 Kent libraries where all resident doctors have membership.

There’s also clearer leadership and accountability, with a named senior leader responsible for resident doctors’ issues and a resident doctor peer representative reporting to the board.