Celebrating the Contributions of SAS and Locally Employed Surgeons and Dentists to the NHS - The SAS Week

The NHS thrives on teamwork, expertise, and the dedication of all stakeholders and providers—qualities abundantly displayed in the remarkable contributions of Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) and Locally Employed (LED) surgeons. These colleagues form a significant, growing part of the UK surgical workforce, consistently delivering expert care, outstanding leadership, and vital continuity across every hospital and surgical specialty. They are often the steadfast pillars that keep care strong and compassionate.

The clinical expertise, adaptability, and sustained dedication exhibited by SAS and LED surgeons are fundamental to maintaining both the resilience and sustainability of routine surgical services, especially during periods marked by workforce shortages and escalating patient demand. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, SAS and LED clinicians were instrumental in reorganizing surgical rotas to maintain elective and emergency care, thereby demonstrating remarkable leadership and flexibility. Beyond their direct patient care, SAS and LED surgeons contribute significantly to the advancement of surgical practice by spearheading educational initiatives, participating actively in research projects, and driving service development, which collectively enhance the quality and continuity of care within the NHS.

As we celebrate NHS SAS Week, it is timely to recognize these contributions formally and to reflect on how their professionalism and dedication form the backbone of safe delivery of surgical and dental services across the NHS.

Enhancing Morale and Professional Identity

One may argue that Celebration is symbolic; we beg to differ – celebration is essential. NHS SAS Week provides an opportunity to boost morale, strengthen identity, and acknowledge the immense value and contributions SAS and LED surgeons bring to their departments.

Recognition contributes directly to well-being and retention. When SAS and LED colleagues feel valued and seen, they are empowered to contribute even more. NHS SAS Week shines a light on SAS LED achievements, reminding us that excellence in surgery is a collective endeavor.

RCSEd is proud to champion this celebration through its dedicated SAS and LED membership engagement, events, and leadership representation. RCSEd ensures that recognition is not limited to a single week, but is embedded throughout the College’s year-round mission.

Promoting Equity and Career Development

SAS and LED surgeons are a diverse and dynamic group. Many have completed higher surgical training abroad, bringing unique experience and expertise that enrich the NHS. However, despite their contributions, access to structured career progression and training opportunities has historically been sparse and inconsistent.

Over the past decade, progress has been made through initiatives such as the SAS Charter (NHS Employers, 2020) and the SAS Development Programme (NHS England), which advocate for fairness, recognition, development, and inclusion.

Further insights from the General Medical Council’s 2024 Workplace Report underline the importance of equity, recognition, and professional growth for SAS doctors, emphasizing their vital contribution to patient care across the NHS.

RCSEd has also demonstrated a strong commitment to equity, offering tailored CPD opportunities, leadership programs, and College representation at the highest level for SAS and LED members. Through these initiatives, the College continues to ensure that all SAS LED surgeons and dentists have access to the tools and recognition needed to thrive and progress professionally.

Driving Advocacy and Visibility

Visibility is key to cultural change. For too long, SAS and LED surgeons have been the quiet achievers of the NHS - essential, yet underrepresented in discussions of leadership and innovation. NHS SAS Week and the RCSEd SAS & LED Conference aim to change that narrative.

RCSEd continues to advocate strongly for this group, ensuring representation within College Council, developing bespoke educational resources, and amplifying SAS and LED achievements through College communications and events.

Conclusion

As NHS SAS Week 2025 unfolds, we celebrate a group of surgeons and dentists whose contributions are fundamental to the success and sustainability of surgical services across the United Kingdom.

The RCSEd SAS & LED Surgeons Conference in Birmingham on 24 October embodies the College’s commitment to recognition, inclusion, and excellence. We encourage all SAS and Locally Employed surgeons and dentists to attend, share their achievements, and engage with peers. Let’s join together to celebrate, innovate, and collectively strengthen the community that sustains the NHS.

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is proud to stand with its SAS and Locally Employed Members and Fellows — not only this week, but every week — in championing their vital contributions to patient care and surgical progress.

References

1. NHS Employers. SAS Charter: resources and guidance for employers and SAS doctors. Available at: https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/sas-charter
2. General Medical Council. The State of Medical Education and Practice in the UK: Workplace report. Available at: https://www.gmc-uk.org/about/what-we-do-and-why/data-and-research/the-state-of-medical-education-and-practice-in-the-uk/workplace-report
3. Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. RCSEd SAS/LED Surgeons and Dentists' Conference (Birmingham, 24 October 2025). Available at: https://www.rcsed.ac.uk/news-resources/rcsed-news/2025/september/rcsed-sasled-surgeons-and-dentists-conference-2025-in-birmingham

Article written by Mr Lasitha Samarakoon SASL Committee Member on behalf of the Committee.