The BMA’s UK resident doctors committee (RDC) has today elected its new chair, Dr Jack Fletcher.

Dr Fletcher is a resident doctor in the North East, working in acute medicine.

He takes up his post from 27th September 2025, taking over from co-chairs Dr Melissa Ryan and Dr Ross Nieuwoudt, who have been in post since 2024.

Dr Fletcher said:

“I am honoured to be elected as chair of UKRDC at a pivotal moment for resident doctors in England. Resident doctors are demoralised and at breaking point. Thousands of resident doctors are increasingly facing unemployment, and with diminished pay whilst working in some of the worst working conditions in the NHS.

“Millions of patients remain on waiting lists, and A&Es across the country continue to be overwhelmed. Simultaneously, a lack of training jobs has left thousands of doctors out of training - with an exodus to pastures new in search of a job.

“I would like to thank the officer team who have led the changes around overtime reporting this year, and I’m keen to get stuck in - working with colleagues to win across all four nations.

“My team and I will take forward talks with the Government to get a fair deal on both jobs and pay. The Government has a chance to build a generation of doctors able to tackle the crisis our NHS is stumbling through. If the Government listens to us, I’m confident we can seize that chance as a profession.”

Ends

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.

• RDC chair and deputy chair roles are elected annually