Negotiations on a new contract for all doctors in training

Who might be affected? Hospital trainees GP trainees (including practice placements) Public health trainees Academic trainees Some dental trainees

Why is this happening? Current Contract Agreed in 2000 after extensive negotiation Based on banding system for pay Successfully reduced hours for junior doctors Pressure for change Current contract doesn’t reflect changes in the way doctors work Fewer hours have meant lower banding A Scoping Report by NHS Employers sets out reasons for change Government announced desire for new contract in Dec 2012

Where are we now? After the Government announcement the BMA agreed to engage in exploratory talks with employers Joint agreement reached on ‘Heads of Terms’ in June 2013 Both sides consulted on the agreement; the BMA with all doctors in training Both sides then agreed to enter formal negotiations in October 2013

Where next? Initial discussions Spring-Summer 2013 Detailed negotiation from Autumn 2013 Aim to conclude in Autumn 2014 Negotiation BMA will seek views of members on any proposal NHS Employers will seek approval from Government (four nations) Feedback and Approval Probably August 2015 BMA and employers will work on implementation plans beforehand Implementation

How might this affect you? There are some key areas that may change in the new contract: Pay Training Hours Working Patterns

Pay Agreement on no change in the average pay for all doctors in training. -This means no increase in pay, but no decrease either. Aiming for more predictable pay for doctors and for employers and pay for work done Looking at how pay changes across your career as a doctor in training

Training Providing you with more information about posts before you start, including the opportunities for training. A contract that facilitates training and continues to define training as work. Recognition of the costs of training

Hours and Working Patterns Introducing more control over work-life balance, looking at fixed annual leave Maintaining control & measurement of hours to protect the safety of doctors and patients. Reviewing working patterns to ensure they reflect hours of work and training

Other issues Introduction of a simple, easy to understand contract Continuation of a UK-wide agreement to enable movement between nations Promoting stability in employment Considering the provision of travel expenses and facilities

How to find out more We want to hear what you think at Visit our website to keep up-to-date with developments: Look out for blogs and other information in the BMA’s e- newsletter