Responding to the publication of the 2025 UK surgical workforce census, Dr Clare McNaught, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh said:
"The census provides a snapshot of the real-life experiences of surgeons throughout the UK and again highlights the significant pressure they face in terms of their clinical and administrative workloads. Working beyond contracted hours is widespread, as are burnout, stress, and consultant vacancies. As 59% of surgical consultants between 55 and 59 are looking to retire in the next four years, these pressures could become more pronounced.
"Whilst most surgeons identified patient care as the most rewarding part of their role, the census also highlights problems in accessing theatre space and beds. This, along with staffing shortages and emergency workloads, are also impacting surgical training and development.
"We are committed to working with government and healthcare organisations to highlight the many issues contained in the report. We are already actively engaged in the both the Ten-Year Plan and forthcoming Long Term Workforce plan for England, advocating the need for continued investment in the NHS workforce, infrastructure, and training."