ACRRM has an important role in ensuring that our members, whether they be medical students, junior doctors, trainees, supervisors or Fellows, can train and work in settings which are safe, respectful, and supportive. The College also encourages members to prioritise their own health and wellbeing.
Fostering workplace cultures which value and support diversity, respect, inclusiveness, fairness and transparency is one of the College’s key strategic objectives. The Respectful Workplaces Committee champions this work. It facilitates the sharing of ideas and information throughout the College; supports the implementation of a respectful workplaces policy framework; and advocates for appropriate working environments for our members.
Safe, respectful and supportive workplaces and practitioner health and wellbeing will be a focus area at this year’s RMA23 in Hobart, Tasmania, with topics including De-escalation of aggressive behaviour in healthcare , Eliminating Isolation: virtual communities of practice , and Can we really have it all? on the agenda, alongside the opportunity to take part in Yoga on Thursday, Friday and Saturday morning.
The Respectful Workplaces Committee will also host an interactive workshop on the first morning of the conference – Thursday, 19 October. Chaired by Committee Chair Dr Sarah Chalmers, this workshop will provide an opportunity for delegates to share ideas on the response to workplace aggression and associated issues from the individual and College perspective. This will be a great opportunity to share experiences and insights and to provide input into the College response. All delegates are warmly welcome.
Practitioner health and well-being is an integral component of a safe and respectful workplace. Proactive self-care is good medical practice, as is being mindful of the needs of colleagues. We also ask our members to check on their colleagues and friends who may be under stress.
• If you, or someone you know requires mental health support and/or emotional assistance, you can access our Wellbeing Resources.
• Access EAP is ACRRM’s 24/7 employee assistance program and provides free of charge counselling and support, and wellbeing resources to members in need.
• For 24 hour crisis support call Lifeline 13 11 14.
• If a life is in danger, call 000.