Experience of Differential Attainment in Psychiatry Trainees at Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SABP)

Aims Differential attainment is a term used to describe variation in the achievement of groups doctors based on certain characteristics. Evidence suggests that international medical graduates (IMGs) UK struggle at different stages training many specialties including psychiatry. This project aims explore experience psychiatry trainee and their trainers SABP understand this issue identify areas for quality improvement. Methods was an exploratory study using mixed methods approach. Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews focus conducted with trainees trainers. Interviews recorded transcribed, then analysed themes. Quantitative online survey sent descriptive statistics. Informed consent obtained from all participants. received approval Health Education England research governance committee accordance British Educational Research Association (BERA) guidelines. Results The had good response rate 60.4% (26 out total 43 trainees) 64.7% (22 34 trainers). Challenges identified by participants both qualitative quantitative mirrored national picture. Five main themes were: 1) impact professional informal support, 2) challenges faced IMGs adjusting new system, 3) communication barriers, 4) Stress burnout impacting trainees’ performance 5) unconscious bias during recruitment, exams, ARCP IMGs. Conclusion generate ideas improvement regard reduction differential within trust. Findings have guided development interventions support trainers, particularly regarding non-professional support. These include induction booklet joining trust, IMG network, mentorship scheme trainees. We aim similar method future evaluate success these interventions. Our findings will other organisations providing postgraduate specialties.