This report shines a spotlight on the issue of sexism and sexual violence in UK medical education, as identified by medical students themselves, those most affected by these issues, who are advocating for change. It provides an overview of the scope of the problem and presents recommendations for effective strategies to begin addressing the problems raised.

The BMA, in collaboration with Surviving in Scrubs, circulated a survey in 2025, asking students to share their experiences of sexism and sexual violence at university, including on clinical placement. This self-selecting survey, with nearly 1000 responses, presents a disturbing number of students who have faced sexual harassment and assault during their time at university.

Key findings

• 84% of respondents believed that sexism is a problem in medical education.
• 41% of female respondents and 19% of male respondents had been targets of sexual harassment or assault at university.
• 60% of respondents did not have faith in their medical school’s ability to adequately respond to a future incident of sexual harassment and assault.
• 75% of respondents who reported sexual harassment or sexual assault said they were not really or not at all satisfied with the outcome.
• 67% who experienced sexual assault or harassment chose not to report it.

Key recommendations

• The Government to bring forward legislation that introduces a statutory duty of care on higher education institutions for their students.
• Medical schools to work together to agree clear, tough sanctions for sexual violence.
• Universities, medical schools and placement providers must provide multiple channels for reporting, including anonymous reporting routes, ensuring students can confidentially disclose incidents without fear of reprisal.
• Measures to minimise interactions between the complainant and the accused must be put in place by medical schools and placement providers, prioritising the wellbeing of the complainant.
• Clinical placement providers and medical schools must provide a safe and inclusive working environment for all students, starting with signing up to NHS England’s Sexual Safety Charter and the BMA’s Ending Sexism in Medicine pledge.

By working collaboratively with Surviving in Scrubs and centring student leaders through the Medical Student’s Committee this report is a call to action, amplifying the voices of medical students who demand safer, more inclusive learning environments.

Listening to and acting on the medical student voice is essential to enable a culture of safety, respect, and accountability in the medical profession.

BMA support

Read BMA guidance on sexual conduct in the workplace.

If you are a member and would like support from the BMA, please contact us.

The BMA offers 24/7 counselling and peer support services regardless of membership status. To contact by phone, call 0330 123 1245 or find out more about our counselling and peer support services.

Other services

• If you wish to report sexual offences to the police, you can do this on the police.uk website.
• If you have been raped or sexually assaulted you can seek help at a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). Find your nearest centre.
• Surviving in Scrubs is a UK-based campaign created by doctors to tackle sexism, sexual harassment, and sexual assault in the healthcare workforce. It provides a platform for survivors to share their stories anonymously.
• Rights of Women provides free employment legal advice to women in England and Wales experiencing sexual harassment at work.
• Rape Crisis England and Wales, Rape Crisis Northern Ireland and Rape Crisis Scotland are charities aiming to support those who have been sexually assaulted, harassed or who have experienced any form of sexual violence.
• Survivors UK has a free, confidential helpline for men and non-binary people affected by sexual violence.
• GALOP offers a free helpline and support service for LGBTQ+ people who have been affected by abuse and violence.
• The Survivors Trust is a national membership organisation supporting specialist rape and sexual abuse services in the voluntary sector.