Having spent over 20 years of my life in Scotland (yes, I can confirm Black Scottish people do exist), I would like to take a moment to reflect on what I’ve learned from that experience—especially now, having recently relocated to England for specialty training. Black History Month feels like a fitting time to share my reflections as a Black female medic who trained in Scotland. This year’s theme is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” But what does that really mean? The theme centers around two core values: power —the ability to create meaningful, positive change—and pride , which speaks of knowing where we come from and embracing our history unapologetically. With that in mind, here are three reflections I’d like to share with you. Reflection One: You Stand Out—So Make It Count You would think that being the first Black person at my local primary school, the only Black girl in my secondary school year (for the most part), and one of just a handful of Black medical students at university would have prepared me for being one of only two Black doctors in the Edinburgh Foundation Programme cohort. Truth be told, it did not. Looking back, I can pinpoint moments when I became acutely aware of the colour of my skin. Naturally, I stood out visibly. And when you stand out like that, you're easily noticed, whether you want to be or not. At some point, I realised: If I’m going to be remembered, it may as well be for being a diligent junior doctor.  It can be an unnecessary burden to be constantly reminded of your colour and feel that you must be better. But I had to change my mindset. This looked like focusing on simply doing the fundamentals well: be on time, write a good job list; ask questions; be involved in the ward round; listen to your patients; be diligent; smile. R eframing that pressure as an opportunity allowed me to develop as a brand-new junior doctor navigating the workspace.   Reflection Two: Ground Yourself in Community Before medical school, I stumbled upon YouTubers like Courtney Daniella, Nissy Tee, and Chidera Ota. Seeing Black girls at Cambridge was almost surreal—because I hardly saw Black girls period , let alone in renowned academic institutions. That was my first encounter of the power of the online community, and it was a game-changer. Not long after, I found Melanin Medics and joined their mentorship programme where I was paired with an amazing mentor. This was a hallmark moment for me, and I am eternally grateful for the positive impact Melanin Medics has made on my journey. I soon realised that, just because I didn’t see Black medics around me in Scotland, didn’t mean they didn’t exist. Embedding myself in the Melanin Medics community during foundation training was crucial for me to stay grounded. I would make trips to London and Manchester for events. I learned that although the journey time was a small price to pay if it meant that I would be in a space that would revitalise me. There are no words to describe what it felt like to be in a room full of Black female doctors at the International Women’s Day brunch in Manchester. That day, I met a consultant neonatologist who spoke about her experience navigating a predominantly white, male specialty. Her words reminded me: you are not alone . Reflection Three: Perhaps You Were Made for Such a Time as This I truly believe our experiences are part of a bigger story. Since moving from Scotland, I’ve had time to reflect—and I’m genuinely grateful for the training I received there. I developed qualities that I might not have gained elsewhere. I often think of biblical figures like Moses and Esther—people who found themselves in places where others from similar backgrounds like them rarely were. Moses, an Israelite raised in an Egyptian palace. Esther, an orphan who became Queen of a nation. Both used their unique positions to bring about a positive change for their people. Their stories remind me that being “the only one” in a space perhaps, is an opportunity for you to be a catalyst for positive change within your community. There’s so much I’ve learned by growing up and training in Scotland. So, to anyone who feels isolated or out of place in their environment, my simple conclusion is this: Stand firm in power and pride. Do not overlook the significance of being in a space where you might be the only one. Maybe there is a reason you are there. And until that reason becomes clear, please root yourself in a community. And after all, if you're going to stand out, you may as well make it count. written by Emma Brew, GPST1

IMG…International Medical Graduate. ‘A physician who has received their medical degree from a location outside of their current country of practice.’ This is not a term that I had ever identified with in my medical career until this point. Not a term that I gave a second thought to until now, where it has basically defined my identity as a part of the NHS. My name is Aisha and I am a proud Saint Lucian, A fact that you would most certainly gather within 5 minutes of meeting me, as I never miss an opportunity to brag about my beautiful Saint Lucia. I would also consider myself to have a second home on Jamaican soil as I had the privilege of living there for 5 years while attending medical school. Earning a medical degree from the University of the West indies (UWI), Mona Campus and practicing medicine in my early career, in my beautiful island home of Saint Lucia meant that I never really felt out of place. I was always Home. The term IMG was far from my mind indeed…until of course moving to the United Kingdom to pursue my medical career further. I went through the requisite processes (examinations and professional registration) and was able to finally secure a post in a busy Orthopaedic department in London. ‘This is it!’, I thought. ‘This is the beginning of fulfilling my dreams!’, ‘the first rung in the ladder to becoming a Trauma & Orthopaedic consultant’. The excitement and butterflies continued as I realised that all I had to do was put my best foot forward, work hard and be a team player. Essentially what I have been doing in my career thus far. The anticipation continued to build when I imagined receiving one of those NHS lanyards that I had seen being donned by some of my fellow UWI grads who had made the trek. Maybe even a ‘Hello my Name is’ badge. I was all set to present myself in the best way possible, shine my metaphorical shoes, re-braid my hair, get my edges just right ( you know…the vital stuff!). It honestly felt like the first day of school all over again. What could stop me with my ‘can do’ attitude? This was going to be amazing!!! Soon, those first day butterflies turned into jitters which then extended to first week and first month worries of not ‘getting it’. The trauma meeting dress-down I received in my second week regarding NHS specific guidelines, which I was just learning has stuck with me and still makes me cringe…three years later. I sometimes felt like another language was being spoken. There were ‘simple’ abbreviations and terms casually thrown around that went over my head, yet everyone else seemed to understand (P.O.C, Edan, MOF’d). The fear of not knowing or looking ‘less than ‘or silly or like I did not have it all together or deserve to have the role that I had worked so hard for, kept me from asking for clarification. It was at this time that ‘IMG’ gained a whole new meaning for me.  The term ‘IMG’, although a simple identifier, somehow made me feel ‘othered‘ initially. It felt like three letters pointing to my inadequacies. However, is different inherently a bad thing? This paradigm shifted completely after a much needed catch- up with some fellow Lucians, who I was lucky to have known since childhood and had made the move to work in the NHS before me. These Ladies have now become my sounding board, my support system and my home away from home. I realized that I was not alone in what I was feeling, not by a long shot as many of their struggles when starting in the NHS closely mirrored my own. A wave of relief washed over me as I heard the words ‘you are not alone’ and surprised when I was encouraged to ask those ‘silly’ questions because on a whole, people want to help you to succeed. During these catch-ups, I was also reminded that my perspective and my experiences in health care were not something to hide or anything that would hold me back, but actually my superpower! My background allowed me to better interact with patients and colleagues who looked just like me, like my Mother, my Father, my Sister, or Aunty Flora who lives down the road. Working in healthcare in the Caribbean also made me resourceful and forced me to manage my precious time. Surely these are critical qualities and skills needed to grow and thrive in the NHS. Everyone’s journey through their medical career looks different. A medical career, specifically one in a surgical field, is most definitely not a ‘one size fits all,’ as I have come to see more and more during my time in the U.K. Many have forged their own paths and carved out their niche in different areas of surgery. The roadmap I see myself following is obtaining a national training number and pursuing specialty training in Trauma and Orthopedics. Unlike many of my U.K.-trained peers, I have not had the same early exposure to the portfolio-based competencies that underpin progression within the NHS. These frameworks, embedded into medical school curricula and early postgraduate training, often mean that U.K. graduates begin their specialty applications with a more structured understanding of expectations. At times, this has made me feel as though I am playing catch-up, constantly working to bridge a gap I did not initially know existed. A gap that may very well  be further widened by proposed impending changes in the higher specialty training recruitment process, further moving the goalpost for myself and other IMG’s alike. However, I approach this challenge with that same ‘first day of school’ energy. I have made it a priority to actively seek out the many resources available to support IMGs like myself. Programs such as SurgIn  by Melanin Medics, which I am privileged to be a part of, have provided invaluable guidance in navigating the complexities of surgical training. I am also grateful to be surrounded by senior colleagues, who I have been introduced to, through hospital placements as well as community networking events, who are not only experienced but are also genuinely willing to offer mentorship and support. Being an International Medical Graduate in the U.K. is not without its challenges, but it is also a journey full of growth, and remarkable opportunity. Along the way, remember this: you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Seek out community - it exists, and it is stronger than you think.  You belong here. Not in spite of your story, but because of it. As you settle in, grow, and find your place, I encourage you to look back and extend a hand to those coming after you. Just as others may have helped you, be the support and reassurance for someone else starting their own journey. We rise by lifting others and in doing so, we create a stronger, more inclusive future for all IMGs.

When I first came across Melanin Medics, I didn’t just see a platform but I saw a reflection of the person I wanted to become. A place where Black medical students and doctors could thrive, not in isolation, but in community. I joined not just to take part, but to grow, to serve, and to find joy in being surrounded by people who get it.  When I think about why I’m still here, eight words come to mind, each one representing a reason I’ve stayed and grown with Melanin Medics. Being a part of Melanin Medics and writing content has made me feel a  part of a bigger mission to be an advocate for Black medical professionals across the country. It brings me joy contributing to Melanin Medics’ vision of empowering current and future doctors of Black heritage. I’ve truly enjoyed being part of a charity that ensures Black medical students, like me, have the opportunity, resources , and community  to excel in our medical education and careers. When applying to medical school, I had a Melanin Medics mentor who gave me advice on interviews and the UCAT, and also gave me tips on how to write my personal statement. Being able to see the number of Black medical students part of the Melanin Medics community allowed me to believe that I also belong in medical school. Through the content I produce and the stories shared, I have worked on being a true advocate   for black people in every medical space. Being a part of Melanin <edics has allowed me to work on shifting narratives, challenging stereotypes and most importantly celebrating black excellence in medicine. At each Melanin Medics event, I am surrounded by amazing, inspirational people within the medical field who take time out of their roles to support Melanin Medics who have done great things within the field. For example, we have many members who have completed the Healthcare Leadership Academy, have won grants and awards for their advocacy and leadership, have spoken at international conferences and so much more. Melanin Medics is a great hub to represent black excellence, and I am privileged to be a part of it. In my role as Content Writer, I’ve had the privilege of developing skills both within and beyond the scope of what I expected. Continuous professional development   is something deeply encouraged within the Melanin Medics team, and through the projects I’ve taken on, I’ve grown in areas like project management, writing, editing, and communication. With the support of my colleagues, I’ve also stepped outside my comfort zone to explore new interests. Building the portfolio resource guide from scratch was a major turning point as it challenged me to research thoroughly, plan with intention, and communicate clearly. The development of the portfolio guide, as well as the research  webinars held by the Research Tea has helped me to demystify research and research pathways. Melanin Medics has helped me better understand what it looks like and the value of academic contribution. I also gained practical experience in branding, design, and adapting content to be both informative and engaging. These experiences have stretched me and built a professional confidence I’ll carry well beyond medical school. Both academic events such as the Innovate for Impact Hackathon and social events  such as the Women in Medicine brunch have played a great role in my growth in Melanin Medics. These events emphasised to me what life in medicine is truly about, balancing your academic development with joy and connection with other medics. I truly enjoyed attending the events but also planning, promoting and executing the events with the team. Truly, being a part of Melanin Medics sharpens both ends of my sword! Through being at Melanin Medics I’ve grown into leadership  in many ways. In my role, I have been a leader in taking initiative, owning my projects and managing timelines. But not only that, the team works in a beautiful way that emphasises us all as leaders, as working independently is a form of leadership, true leadership which is consistent and intentional, things the whole team have developed. Partly, this was developed by the mentorship  available within the team. Each team member has supported and encouraged me and we all supported each other, a form of informal mentoring that has truly helped me grow in confidence and my voice. Being a part of Melanin Medics helped me see mentorship not as a formal relationship, but as any moment of guidance – whether written, spoken or shared. It’s been such a meaningful ride so far, and I’m honestly so grateful to be part of something that keeps pouring into me as much as I pour into it. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, this is your sign!  Whether you’re looking to build skills, find community, or just be part of something uplifting, there’s a space for you here. Here’s to 8 years of impact – and to all the years still to come.  For information on how you can support Melanin Medics, click here !

As the next cycle of our Enrichment Programme begins, we thought to give some insights into some misconceptions about foundation medical training in the UK! Misconception no. 1: Choosing individual rotations A common misconception we have heard is that most medical students believe you can choose each of your rotations individually, tailoring your foundation programme entirely to your interests. However, in actuality, most foundation jobs have the full set of six rotations across F1 and F2 pre-allocated to you. This means, once you’re matched to a programme you may be automatically assigned specific specialties and locations for both years, with limited flexibility to swap. So, make sure you research the foundation school you’re applying to, making sure it has specialties you are interested in! Misconception no.2: Portfolio requirements Portfolio forms, sign-offs, reflections—they don’t end after finals. If anything, they matter even more now.  It’s easy to underestimate how much ongoing assessment continues during foundation training. ARCP (Annual Review of Competency Progression) comes around faster than you’d expect, especially if you’re only just getting the hang of your ward job.  Start early, ask questions, and stay organised—you’ll thank yourself when ARCP rolls around. Misconception no. 3: full GMC graduation Many students think full GMC registration only happens after F2, but actually, it’s granted after F1— as long as you get a satisfactory Certificate of Completion . This means you're officially recognised as a fully registered doctor with the GMC, and you can start applying for specialty training (if you want to), work locum shifts more freely, or even take an FY3 year if that’s part of your plan. Knowing this early can help with career planning—especially if you're thinking about taking a break after F2 or applying for competitive training programmes that require full registration at the point of application.  Just make sure you stay on top of your e-portfolio, supervisor meetings, and assessments—because any delays in your F1 sign-off can hold up your registration. Misconception no.4: Specialty Applications The foundation programme is thought to give you two full years to explore different specialties and then decide what to apply for. However, in practice, applications for specialty training open in October of F2, which is very early in the programme, usually during your 1st rotation. This means that you might not have the chance to experience all the specialties you're considering before making decisions about your specialty career path. This leaves many doctors applying based on limited experiences or relying on insights gained during medical school or early F1. Moreover, if you want to apply for specialty training after F2 you must be building your portfolio throughout later years in medical school and F1. Even if you’re not 100% sure what you want to do, start narrowing things down in med school or early F1. You’ll be surprised how quickly October of F2 rolls around— having some portfolio evidence or specialty-specific insights by then really helps. Misconception no.5: No spare time! As a foundation doctor, you’ll have more time than you think—yes, even with nights, long days, and weekend shifts. But to truly make the most of it (and protect your wellbeing), you’ll need to be intentional. Plan your annual leave around zero days and weekends to create longer stretches of rest, and use those windows to actually recharge—not just catch up on life admin. Whether it’s a proper break, a weekend away, or just time to do nothing, prioritising rest is just as important as ticking off portfolio tasks. Burnout is real, and planning your time well is one of the simplest ways to guard against it. When the rota drops, grab a calendar and block out any golden weekends or clusters of zero days. Then, slot in annual leave strategically to stretch out your time off. Even adding just one or two days can turn a regular weekend into a mini reset—and your future self will thank you for it. Starting foundation training can feel like stepping into the unknown—but the more informed you are, the more empowered you’ll feel. Whether you’re navigating portfolios, planning your career, or just trying to find your rhythm, you don’t have to figure it out alone. That’s exactly why our  Enrichment Programme  exists—to support current Black medics with mentorship, guidance, and community. If you're a final year medical student looking to get ahead with confidence, connection, and clarity, this programme is for you.   Applications are now open—find out more via this link

This month is all about women! Women’s History Month is our time to recognise and celebrate the contributions of women to history, culture and society. This is so important as we must acknowledge and celebrate these achievements as well as highlight the unique challenges women face in the home, within their careers and in society. We ensure that during this month we highlight these challenges but also celebrate the great things women do! It’s important that we all come together as allies for women, which involves not only awareness of the issues and successes but actionable things we can do for them. Allyship is an ongoing process of learning support and advocating for women. Within healthcare, this can be through bringing awareness to the gender disparities in the workplace such as leadership gaps, bias in research and discrimination. So, we must see how we can practically be an ally for women of all backgrounds within the industry, the home and all backgrounds. Being an ally isn’t just about being aware of these challenges—it’s about actively supporting women in meaningful ways. So, what can you do to be a better ally? 1.        Educate Yourself To be a good ally, read about the contributions of women in medicine (or any other field), and the barriers that they may face. Not only that, follow and amplify the voices of female medical professionals, especially those from minority backgrounds. Make it a point to recognise the biases in medical education and clinical practice, as well as your own biases.  Why not try this:  read a book by a female author in your field or follow a female thought leader on social media today. 2.        Speak up and challenge bias! Once you educate yourself on these biases, call them out! It is so important to be an advocate for women in the workplace – this can be done by calling out microaggressions and gender bias in conversations and decision-making. Let them know that their contributions are acknowledged, and they are heard.  Try this today:  In your next meeting or group discussion, be mindful of whose voices are being heard, and make space for women to contribute. 3.        Support and mentorship If you know a woman who aspires to be in your position, perhaps from an underrepresented background, offer your support and mentorship to them. A great example is the Akaya Foundation which offers mentorship to young ladies in Ghana, and is now opening in the UK, encouraging wellness and leadership. Also, show your support by acknowledging and celebrating women’s success publicly! Try this today:  Reach out to a woman in your field and offer encouragement or practical advice. 4.        Be Intentional about inclusion Advocate for diverse panels, speakers and leadership in conferences and in the workplace. For example, if you’re organising an event or discussion, make sure women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, are included as speakers.  This can also be done by pushing for family-friendly policies like flexible working hours and parental leave, this will recognise and support the additional caregiving burdens many women face.  Try this today: If you notice a female colleague struggling with balancing work and life, offer support—whether that’s sharing resources or simply listening. 5.        Beyond Women’s History Month I encourage you to commit yourself to a lifelong learning and allyship. Keep advocating for change in policies, pay equity and representation. Check in on the women in your life; your friends, sisters, mothers, and partners. Ask how you can support them in their goals and challenges. Allyship requires action, not just words.  Try this today:  Choose one tangible step from this blog and put it into practice. Let us know in the comments—what action will you take to support women today?

Medical school (and life as a doctor) is a never ending journey. Between placement, lectures, long shifts, studying for exams, and managing the chaos of rotations, finding time for friendships and relationships can seem impossible. But here's the truth: those relationships are more important than ever. So, a question I always have is how do I maintain these friendships when I feel like I have no time at all? Here are some things I’ve been thinking about: In the medical journey there are highs and lows, moments of triumph, and moments of sheer exhaustion. And that’s where friendships come in. Having a close friend (or two, three or more!) can make all the difference. Your friends in medical school / workplace Friends within medicine offer emotional support, a space to vent, and someone who understands when things get overwhelming. They’re there to celebrate the small and the big victories with you! Importantly, they help keep you grounded, reminding you that you're more than just a student or a doctor—you’re a human, too. In medicine, your colleagues start to become like family. You spend countless hours together, with the shared experiences creating sometimes very strong bonds. With intention, some of these bonds can become lasting friendships. The key is being intentional. Even though you’re all busy, taking time to connect beyond just studying or working goes a long way. Grabbing lunch between lectures, sending a text asking how a friend is handling their shift, or sharing a funny meme to lighten the mood are all ways to show your intent. Your friends outside of work! Having relationships outside of medicine however is just as crucial. It’s easy to get sucked into the "medical bubble," but friends from other walks of life can provide perspective and a reminder that there’s more to life than the next patient or case. They help you recharge and maintain your sanity! Sometimes, the last thing you want to do after a long day is socialise. But keeping in touch with friends outside of school or work is key to balancing your life. Whether it’s a weekly phone call, a spontaneous catch-up, or just sending a quick message, maintaining those connections helps you feel less isolated. You don’t need to hang out every weekend or host big get-togethers. It’s the small, consistent efforts that count. Even just a quick text or a “Hey, how’s your week been?” can make a huge difference in maintaining friendships when you’re stretched thin. Balancing it all Overall, to maintain your relationships as a medic, you must balance study time, clinical work, and your personal life. One thing that helps me is scheduling ‘dates’ with my friends on my calendar, just like I would schedule a shift or the time I will spend in the library. This allows me to plan in advance and protect the time I have for my friends. I’ve also learned that it’s okay to say no sometimes –  you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize the moments that matter and be realistic about what you can handle. Your friends will understand, especially if you communicate openly about it. Acknowledging the guilt that comes with saying no. Unfortunately, there is always the guilt that comes with saying no, or with having a schedule so packed that you miss a birthday, a wedding, or even cancel plans three times in a row. I find this to be a normal feeling among medics, where we feel torn between our personal and professional lives. However, it's important not to let that guilt consume you. When you do get time to spend with your loved ones, it’s important to stay engaged with your friends and loved ones, even when you don’t have much time. Be mentally present as well as physically present. Taking the time to do these things reminds you that there is more to life than work and exams. Stay connected! At the end of the day, your friendships and relationships are what will keep you going during the tough times. They remind you that you're not alone on this journey and that there’s more to life than just the next clinical task or study session. So, even when life gets hectic, make the time. Your friends (and you) will be grateful. And speaking of making time for the people who matter—International Women's Day is just around the corner! If you're looking for a great way to connect with your peers and celebrate the women who support and inspire you, consider joining us for a special International Women's Day Brunch . It’s the perfect opportunity to take a break from the grind, share a meal, and celebrate friendship, empowerment, and the incredible women in our lives. Mark your calendars, and let’s make time for each other! www.melaninmedics.com/events

We are well into the new year now and whenever I begin a new year or quarter I find it really important to reflect on the previous season I had and see where I did good, and where I could have improved. From these improvements, I make a few goals that I can work towards in the new year. Most of the time, I set these goals, start intensely working on them for the first few weeks of the year, then my passion for meeting these goals starts to dwindle. This is not sustainable! So, one change I am making this year is to make sustainable goals and plan how to take tangible steps towards them. Firstly, I like to split my goals into different aspects of my life. So, for me, my main focus points are my faith, medical school and my future career, my health, my social life. Once I identified my strengths and weaknesses in each of these sectors of my life, I began writing my goals out. A lot of us may be familiar with the SMART acronym for goal setting. Whilst I think it's useful in corporate settings, I find it just as useful to adapt to my own personal goals. First is specific. For me, this means making my goal tangible. So, for example, instead of saying I want to become fitter as a goal, I’ve decided that I want to go to the gym three times a week. This would ultimately make me fitter, but having this specific goal means I have defined what I am working towards.  Next, I have to make each of my goals measurable, so referring back to my fitness goal, I personally have a notion page where I track when I go to the gym and what I did - so I can see how often I am going and which exercises to do each day.    I also like to think about making my goals achievable in this step. As a medical student who also runs a society at uni, I realised that going to the gym every day, or even 5 days a week wasn’t sustainable with my schedule. Therefore, making it 3 days a week is something more realistic for me and well within my capabilities each week.  The last step for having tangible goals is a timeline for completion. For me, this would be scheduling time to review my goal and see if I should change it. For me, that would be at the end of the quarter seeing whether I managed to go to the gym that often on average and see whether I need to adapt my goal. So as we’re at the end of January, I think it's a great time to reflect on any New Year’s resolutions you may have already set and adapt them to make them tangible goals. Comment below the steps you’ll be taking towards your tangible goals!

As the year draws to a close, many of us are wrapping up medical school placements, moving through different hospital rotations as junior doctors, or even taking some well-deserved time off before the new year begins. Whatever stage you are in, the last few weeks of December are usually used for reflecting on the current year and preparing for the year that's to come. One way I will be doing this is by resting and recharging in preparation for the exciting year ahead!  I think it's important that we all take this time to rest and recharge, but also ensure that we have a clear understanding of the definition of resting and recharging and what that means for us specifically. What does resting and recharging mean to you? Take a moment to reflect on your personal needs! Resting is done usually when we are tired. Rest becomes necessity when we have completed actions that have depleted us physically, emotionally, mentally and more. I see rest as something that should be regularly done in your routine, meaning at least once a day (hopefully more!) you are intentionally taking the time to cease from work and the business of the day in order to relax. Rest isn’t just about recovering from tiredness; it’s about building resilience and preventing burnout. Regular rest is shown to improve focus, boost creativity, and even strengthen the immune system. Think about how you feel after a good night’s sleep or a peaceful moment of quiet - hopefully your mind feels clearer, your energy is renewed, and you’re better equipped to tackle challenges. So, I would say that whilst rest can seem like a luxury; it’s a necessity for sustainable success. For me, the best way I love to rest is: sleep!  A nap hates to see me coming! Sleeping is a vital part of human nature therefore for me, ensuring that I sleep for the correct amount of hours in a day, or even take a nap when my body calls for it, means that I tackle each day being as rested as I can possibly be. As well as resting, it is important to recharge! Especially as we are reaching the end of the year and have worked so hard this quarter, it is important to refill our batteries and regain the strength and energy needed to continue again. Most of us have phones, and, as we know, the best way to recharge a battery is to plug it in and leave it alone! Therefore, I see the best way for me to recharge is to take some time off!  If this means for you scheduling some annual leave at the end of the year, booking a holiday, or even turning off your phone, refusing to check emails, and shutting off for some time—go ahead and do it!  Recharging looks different for everyone. If you find joy and gain energy from meeting up with loved ones, or perhaps you recharge by going to the gym or spending time in nature, everyone has an activity that restores their energy and passion for life.  Take some time to experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you.  It is so important to take the time to refuel ourselves before stepping into the new year, remembering that we are not machines but human beings naturally built to rest and recharge. Whether you need to rest, recharge, or both this winter break, be sure to set aside some dedicated time for yourself! Think about ways in which you personally enjoy resting and fit it into your schedule before beginning the work on the great plans and goals set for 2025. Take a moment to schedule your rest and recharge time today—your 2025 self will thank you!

This year our theme for Black History Month (BHM) is Reclaiming the Narrative - an opportunity for every member of the Black community to take part in shaping how our stories are told and ensuring that the complexity of our experiences is fully represented. In this blog, we aim to understand the root of the current narratives surrounding Black medical professionals and patients, and advocate for a new, empowering narrative that truly reflects our contributions and challenges in the NHS and wider healthcare organisations. It's essential to recognise that the experiences of Black patients and doctors are not monolithic; individual narratives vary widely based on factors like socio-economic status, geography, and personal circumstances. By incorporating diverse stories and testimonials, we can paint a more accurate and nuanced picture of the challenges and triumphs within our community. Reclaiming my Health: The Narrative on Black Patients Black patients have historically been subjected to systemic biases that have distorted their healthcare experiences and compromised the quality of care they receive. These deep-rooted issues have created barriers to equitable treatment, highlighting the urgent need to reclaim and reshape narratives around Black health and well-being. As someone invested in this field, it's painful to witness how these deep-rooted issues continue to create barriers to equitable treatment. Historically, black patients have had to endure a challenging healthcare experience due to silence, mistreatment and unmet needs. Biassed diagnostics, disparities in treatment, dismissed concerns and minimised pain has shattered the patient-provider trust leading to hesitance in seeking care. There must be a shift in narrative, a focus on movements that empower black patients to advocate for their health and mental well-being. We applaud the initiatives that are aimed at increasing awareness of conditions that are rampant within black communities. These initiatives, such as Black Minds Matter UK, give all black patients the ability to tell their stories, to illuminate the disparities in their perception of pain and health outcomes - to truly be heard in a system that systematically ignores their needs. If this silence within healthcare is not addressed, it leads to unwanted outcomes, greater risk of misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatments. The challenges Black individuals face in accessing mental health services are rooted deeply in systemic barriers and cultural stigmas, as shown in a qualitative study from Southeast England. This study detailed two major themes that influenced access to mental health services. The first was the inability to recognise and accept mental health problems, and the negative perception and social stigma against mental health. Moreover, the inadequate response to mental health needs as well as the lack of understanding and sensitivity to cultural differences towards black services users and the lack of awareness of the different services was highlighted. There is a dire need for improving information about services and access pathways, with healthcare providers being provided relevant training and support in developing effective communication strategies. This can be done by developing resources in multiple languages and training being provided specifically on cultural sensitivity. The information on access pathways should be given in a format that explains the process simply and step-by-step. Moreover, regular opportunities to give feedback should be introduced so that patients have the opportunity to have their opinions heard and acted on by providers refining their communication approaches accordingly.  This study highlighted to me the need to reshape the narratives around mental health, to encourage open discussions about the topic in black homes, communities and in the hospital to destigmatize seeking help. Moreover, I find it essential to promote culturally relevant mental health resources to ensure Black communities are aware of where to seek support, allowing them to navigate the healthcare system more effectively. By reclaiming narratives around mental health, we can create a more inclusive dialogue that de-stigmatises seeking help and addresses the specific needs of Black individuals. I believe that us as black medics have a crucial role to play in this by leading these conversations, advocating for mental health awareness, and being visible examples of the importance of seeking support. This shift is critical for encouraging greater engagement with mental health services and empowering communities to take control of their mental well-being. Overall, I believe there is a need to reclaim the negative narratives that form the experience of black patients in healthcare. The empowerment of black patients and an increase in education and awareness of their rights and services available is essential to address their needs and how they are viewed. Moreover, culturally relevant training for healthcare providers is crucial for improving communication and trust between patients and their doctors. To address the disparities in healthcare outcomes, all black patients should be encouraged to share our stories and challenge existing biases, in this way we can advocate for our own health which can lead to systemic improvement in healthcare practices and policies. As we explore the barriers that Black patients encounter in the healthcare system, it's crucial to recognise that these challenges extend to Black medical professionals as well. Reclaiming My Profession: The Narrative on Black Doctors We will also take a deep dive into the narratives that have been placed on black doctors in the professional environment. We will look at challenging the negative historical perceptions to promote equity within the medical field. As a Black medic, I've seen firsthand how deeply ingrained stereotypes can affect not just my career but my daily interactions with colleagues and patients. Throughout time, black doctors have been perceived as less competent or qualified than their white counterparts. These harmful stereotypes persist within medical institutions such as the NHS, undermining the confidence and credibility of black professionals. Moreover, as a black medical professionals, we often experience mistrust and scepticism from our patients solely based on the colour of their skin. This can lead to a breakdown in the patient-doctor relationship further complicating our ability to, as black doctors and medical students, provide effective care. From microaggressions to overt racism, these experiences of racial discrimination faced by black doctors can create a hostile work environment leading to stress and burnout which can ultimately impact career progression. It was reported that black surgeons were 27% less likely to be promoted than their white colleagues between 2016 to 2020, with black women being 42% less likely. As someone navigating this field, these numbers hit close to home. It’s disheartening to know that even with hard work and dedication, many Black doctors may likely face significant barriers to career advancement. For me, and for many of my peers, the lack of Black representation in senior roles is more than simply a statistic but impacts the way we see ourselves and our future in medicine. Initiatives such as the Melanin Medics SurgIn: The Lewin Programme have been pivotal in supporting black medics reach these career milestones. A lack of black representation in higher roles within medicine can cause a suffering in treatment of patients, when those in charge don’t reflect the diversity of the population, important perspectives are often left out of the conversation.   In this case, it is thus crucial that we, as black healthcare professionals and students, share our personal narratives to highlight the experiences of racism and discrimination within this system but also flip the script and showcase the stories of black doctors who have successfully navigated their careers despite barriers, serving as role models for future generations. It is also crucial that representation of black doctors in leadership positions is increased, with increased efforts to create a more inclusive environment where diverse voices are heard and valued. While it's crucial to address systemic issues and challenges faced by Black patients and doctors, highlighting success stories is equally important to inspire hope and resilience. In my own journey, seeing Black professionals make strides in medicine and witnessing the impact of community-driven health initiatives has been a constant source of motivation.  Celebrating achievements within the community, such as advancements in health initiatives or notable contributions by Black professionals, can motivate others to engage and advocate for positive change. Sources Black surgeons ‘promoted far less than white colleagues in England’ | NHS | The Guardian NHS risks losing black and Asian doctors over ‘intolerable’ racism levels – report | NHS | The Guardian ‘I know what racism is’: Black doctors detail their experiences of discrimination in the NHS | ITV News Perceived barriers to accessing mental health services among black and minority ethnic (BME) communities: a qualitative study in Southeast England | BMJ Open Breaking the Silence: Black Women’s Healthcare Struggles | Psychology Today United Kingdom Most black people in UK face discrimination from healthcare staff, survey finds | The BMJ   https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk

This month is Movember, a time dedicated to celebrating men’s health. During this month, it is common for men to shave their facial hair at the beginning and let it grow throughout the month. One thing I love about this movement is learning that the moustache symbolises a healthier man - a symbol for advocating for healthier men across the globe. By letting their facial hair grow, it sparks conversations about Movember, which should then lead to discussions about the charity's cause. Movember also shines a spotlight on critical issues like mental health and suicide prevention. By sparking conversations, the movement encourages men to open up about struggles they might otherwise keep hidden, creating a culture of support and understanding. I believe that it's important that we all understand the reason and the need for Movember as we must all advocate for the health of men globally. The life expectancy for males across the globe is 5.9 years less than for females. This is due to a number of factors, from our genetic and hormonal differences, to increased likelihood of chronic illnesses and less beneficial health-related behaviours. For example, men are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases, be obese or have a poor diet. Additionally, some men are less likely to seek prompt medical attention which can lead to delayed diagnosis of their conditions and even worsen their outcomes. For me, I question why these statistics are true. One aspect I believe plays a part are the societal norms around masculinity which may discourage men from discussing physical and mental health concerns. From hearing statements such as ‘men don’t cry’ and being told to be ‘tough’ in hard situations, some men may experience barriers in reaching out concerning things that may be affecting them. This is why I see it as important that Movember is in place as the script must be flipped and the health challenges that men go through must be addressed. We must also play a part in breaking apart these stigmas and creating spaces within homes, healthcare, relationships, workplaces and more for men to be more open about their healthcare concerns.  So, here are three actionable steps to support all men facing physical or mental health challenges: Create a safe space for open communication Normalise seeking help by sharing information about therapists, support groups, or health professionals. Share and suggest healthy lifestyle habits ; activities like exercising together, eating healthy, or engaging in hobbies - all activities that support wellbeing. This should not only be addressed in November but at all times and in all situations. So, as healthcare professionals, siblings, friends, parents and more to all men across the world, I urge you to take part in being an advocate for men’s health, making it a priority every day. Together, we can create a lasting impact that promotes healthier lives for men everywhere. Here are some opportunities and groups that focus on bettering men’s health and wellbeing! Mental Health Foundation: Our work on men’s mental health   Movember HeadsUpGuys Movember isn’t just for those growing moustaches—it’s an opportunity for everyone to get involved. From organising fundraising events to simply checking in on the men in our lives, there are countless ways to contribute to this vital cause and help create a lasting impact on men’s health worldwide. ​ Sources used: Provisional Life Expectancy Estimates for 2021. Movember

This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness week is ‘Movement: Moving more for our mental health so this blog’s focus will be looking at movement at work, which particularly will be poignant to those of you who work in hospitals. Have you ever looked at your step count when you’re at work? I went back to look at my step count when I was on my general surgery rotation - I was doing between 10 - 15,000 steps per day on my on-call block! In medicine, we often talk about this golden phrase “work-life balance” which, don't get me wrong, is incredibly important, but I found my experience, particularly when transitioning to F1, really difficult to balance exercise with work. To be honest, I felt really guilty that I was not putting aside the time to go to the gym as frequently as I would have liked. Now, I try to go at least once a week and give myself bonus points if I feel like doing more or instead go for a short run when the weather is behaving. I was always inspired and jealous of  gym influencers waking up at 5am to slip in a workout before work, but honestly I found myself to be too exhausted needing a longer sleep before work but then too tired to do anything else after work.  So thinking back on this theme helped me reframe my thinking behind moving for mental health because automatically we can assume that means intense exercise but actually that is not the only way to move our bodies. “We know that even the thought of starting “exercise” can be off-putting to many people and that’s why we’re focusing on movement to make you feel good. At a very basic level, physical activity means any movement of your body that uses your muscles and expends energy. One of the great things about moving more is that there are possibilities to suit almost everyone.” - Mental Health Foundation There are many ways which we can move more at work - here are five simple tips: However, the point is any movement is great and as Mental Health Foundation have noted this is not an exercise campaign as this can be a triggering message for people with experience of disordered eating/ exercise addiction. If you are worried that you or someone you care about is exercising excessively or causing harm, please visit BEAT for further information and support. You may find that you do this automatically anyway without realising and that’s great! I hope this blog helps you realise even the small steps in your day counts as movement. Working in the NHS is no mean feat so these little snippets of energisers can make all the difference for your mood and energy. #MomentsForMovement Written by, Dr Ellen Nelson-Rowe, Melanin Medics Blog Lead Further resources: https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/be-active-for-your-mental-health/ Why not check out our previous wellbeing blogs? https://www.melaninmedics.com/post/nurture-your-wellbeing-maintaining-a-work-life-balance https://www.melaninmedics.com/post/balance-~-hitting-the-gym-vs-hitting-the-books https://www.melaninmedics.com/post/burnout

All things UKFPO Before we tackle the focus of this blog with some tips and tools for ranking foundation programme jobs, it is apt to address the key changes to the UK Foundation Programme this year, including the allocation process move to Preference Informed Allocation (PIA), where applicants are assigned a random computer based generated ranking. This compares to previous years whereby ranking scores were comprised from academic performance (EPM) and the situational judgement test (SJT). A key aim of PIA should theoretically result in more applicants being allocated in their top 5 choices. However, despite UKFPO involving stakeholder engagement before implementation, this new system has come under criticism with removal of security for applicants and reports of deanery allocations in unwanted bottom choices. Furthermore, from 2025, it should be noted that the PIA system will also apply to the Specialised Foundation Programme and may have considerable impact on the future of clinical academia. We will be writing an up-to-date application guide for 2025 entry as further information is released so do look out for this! So how does preferencing work after deanery allocations? The preferencing process either occurs as a one-stage or two-stage process: One-stage process = rank all of the foundation jobs in that deanery Two-stage process = firstly rank groups within the deanery (usually divided by trusts or further breakdown of regions); secondly after being assigned a group (with the same computer generated ranking) then rank all of the foundation jobs within that group Many of the larger deaneries have moved to the two-stage process which significantly cuts down the workload for applicants and technically should allow for more specific location preferencing. Then by mid-April, all applicants will find out the exact job they have been matched to; and the registration and employment checking process begins! So where to start with ranking your jobs? Firstly, it is well worth downloading the list of jobs in a spreadsheet so you can scroll through them easily rather than navigating individual details for each job manually on Oriel. You can do this by selecting “Click here to download preferences in an Excel compatible file (.csv)” under the programmes preferencing area on Oriel. Alternatively, lists of jobs can usually be found on the individual deanery websites but Oriel will have the most up to date job information. Note that most jobs will be listed 3 times due to different rotation orders (e.g. 1a- Cardiology, General Surgery, Paediatrics; 1b -  General Surgery, Paediatrics, Cardiology; 1c - Paediatrics, Cardiology, General Surgery) so make sure you start by organising in terms of the overall rotations in each job, THEN look more closely at your preferred order in what rotation you would like to start on - we will tackle a bit more on rotation order later on! Next, you need to think about your priorities! Everyone has different priorities and there are multiple factors you may want to consider when ranking jobs. Click each dropdown to read more: So does the rotation order of foundation jobs really matter? There are different opinions on this. Technically no, because at the end of the day you will get to do all 3 of those rotations in one year no matter what, but there are some factors you might want to consider. Click each dropdown to find out more: Tools to help you with ranking Whatever method you use to rank, make sure to give yourself time to review a couple of times before you add them in on Oriel - sometimes a fresh night’s sleep can give you a different perspective! It is wise to rank ALL of the jobs in the deanery group you have been allocated to increase your chance of preferred choices. We hope you find this advice useful and all the best for your future job allocations! We will be updating our application guides across aspiring medics, medical students and doctors content this year - do not hesitate to reach out for blog requests! Written by, Dr Ellen Nelson-Rowe, Melanin Medics Blog Lead