West of Scotland Internal Medical and Core Surgical Trainees Buddy Scheme
![West of Scotland Internal Medical and Core Surgical Trainees Buddy Scheme](/images/this-is-what-we-do/support-and-mentorship/buddy-scheme-rcpsg.jpg)
The Buddy Scheme, established in partnership with the West Region of the Scotland Deanery aims to provide West of Scotland Internal Medical Trainees (IMT) and Core Surgical Trainees (CST) with a senior ‘Buddy’ at specialty Training (ST) 3-7 level who will be available for informal near-peer support and advice and to create a sense of belonging within the WoS medical and surgical community.
A ‘Buddy’ will normally be responsible for 1-2 IMT/CSTs and the scheme is entirely flexible. Pairs can meet as often as they like, in person (where pandemic restrictions allow) or via Zoom/Teams or simply phone/email/WhatsApp communication if preferred.
The aim is for the relationship to be an informal source of support from someone unrelated to the IMT/CST’s formal supervision structure. Topics of discussion can be dictated by the needs of the IMT/CST but have previously included advice regarding placements, CV writing and interview preparation.
Registrations have now closed for the 2021 intake. Registrations are expected to re-open in July 2022 for the 2022 scheme.
Benefits for the IMT/CST
- Having an ‘older sibling’ who can be contacted for support and advice.
- Avoid the feeling of being lost in a large training programme.
- Developing a personal sense of belonging as a WoS trainee.
Benefits for the ‘Buddy’
- Introduction to the role of educational supervisor.
- Development of coaching / leadership / management skills, supported by educational seminars at the College.
- Certificates of participation will be awarded.
Please contact membernetworks@rcpsg.ac.uk to find out more.