On Monday (23/06), the below resolution passed in full at 2025 Annual Representative Meeting in Liverpool. 

Motion by CONSULTANTS CONFERENCE: That this meeting recognises the new 
legislation placing a duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment of their 
employees, but more must be done to prevent, investigate, and support those 
who report sexual harassment in medicine. We call on:-

i) NHS trusts to include Active Bystander Training within programs of 
mandatory training for all staff;

ii) the BMA to lobby for a national anonymous reporting structure for sexual 
harassment;

iii) NHS organisations to investigate reports of sexual misconduct with 
investigators trained in trauma investigations, external to the Trust;

iv) the BMA to work with stakeholders, including Working Party on Sexual 
Misconduct in Surgery, to develop guidelines for providing ongoing support for 
victims as witnesses in tribunals.

Responding, BMA consultants committee co-chair Dr Helen Neary said: “No one should feel unsafe at work. Yet the appalling truth is that doctors, disproportionately women, are still subject to sexual harassment, abuse and assault in the workplace – often by their fellow doctors. This has to stop.

“Not only is It obviously completely unacceptable and has a devastating impact on victims, but also affects the quality of care and workforce capacity as poor behaviours will do nothing to retain staff in the NHS.

“As the trade union and professional association for all doctors in the UK – from those beginning their careers as medical students to retirement and beyond – the BMA welcomes the legal obligation placed on the NHS to protect employees from sexual harassment. Today’s vote makes some excellent suggestions on how this work can go further, including anonymous reporting, that will encourage those concerned about coming forward to do so, and better equipping doctors on how they can support colleagues when they witness sexual harassment at work.

“As representatives of all doctors and medical students we will continue to play a crucial role in stamping out these deplorable behaviours and support members when they are subject to them.”

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.