Changing workplace culture starts with recognising and challenging bullying, undermining and harassment.
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) is committed to promoting respectful working environments across surgery and dentistry.
Explore our free resources, including downloadable posters, presentations and guidance, to help raise awareness and encourage positive changes in workplace behaviour. You can also find professional development opportunities to help teams manage conflict constructively.
Professional Development Course
We also offer a one-day course on Addressing Conflict in Surgical Teams (ACT) that explores the causes of conflict within the surgical workplace and learn about different strategies to address this. This includes how to have difficult conversations, the art of negotiation and how to approach a challenging situation. If you are interested in this course, please contact education@rcsed.ac.uk.
Addressing Conflict in Surgical Teams (ACT) Course
Click the button below to book your place.
Learn moreAnti-Bullying Presentations for Hospitals
Present at your hospital. We want you to spread the word that disruptive behaviour is not acceptable. We have two presentations available; a ten minute and a thirty minute version for you to present at grand rounds or departmental meetings in your own hospitals. Guidance notes are attached at the end of each slide.
Undermining and Bullying in the Surgical Workplace
10 Minute Presentation
Click the button below to download,
Download hereUndermining and Bullying in the Surgical Workplace
30 Minute Presentation
Click the button below to download.
Download hereSchwartz Rounds: Supporting Healthcare Teams
Ask your organisation if you can set up a monthly Schwartz round. These are group meetings for all staff where the emotional and social aspects of working in healthcare are discussed. For more information and to find out how to register please contact the Point of Care Foundation.
Our Commitment to Transparency
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is committed to ensuring the independence and integrity of our content, products, and services. We strive to be transparent about any interests that our users, customers, and partners might want to know about.
As #letsremoveit is an integral part of the College’s core work to improve patient outcomes and surgical standards, care has been taken to ensure there are no personal or professional conflicts of interest. Our work has been devised by our fellows, members, members of staff using their own personal time and expertise, and resources remain freely accessible. All activities have been funded solely by The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
We will ensure that #letsremoveit continues to operate on this basis.
Explore Related Topics
The Problems
Explore the evidence on bullying, undermining, sexism and sexual harassment in surgery. Discover how harmful workplace behaviours affect healthcare professionals, team culture and patient safety, with research and statistics from RCSEd and other organisations.
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Expected Standards of Behaviour
Explore the professional standards expected of surgeons, dentists and healthcare professionals. Discover how GMC guidance, the RCSEd Code of Conduct and NHS sexual safety commitments address bullying, undermining, harassment and respectful workplace behaviour.
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How to Be Assertive Without Being a Bully
Learn how to be assertive without bullying or intimidating colleagues in surgery. Discover practical advice on setting expectations, managing trainee performance, giving constructive feedback and maintaining respectful working relationships.
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Get Help Today
Find help and support for bullying, harassment, workplace violence and mental health concerns in surgery and healthcare. Explore confidential support services, helplines, practical advice and resources for healthcare professionals.
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What Makes A Good Workplace
Discover what makes a good workplace in healthcare, from compassionate leadership and psychological safety to team learning, staff wellbeing and practical ways to promote civility and respect.
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