A message from Carrie MacEwen

I can hardly believe that 2025 is almost over and we are already thinking about what next year will bring.

This is a happy time of the year for many, with celebrations and holidays to look forward to – but this isn’t always the case when you work in healthcare providing essential services for patients and communities.

Seasonal pressures can bring an added intensity to your work, as the capacity and resilience of healthcare systems everywhere are sorely tested. Mutual support among colleagues is invaluable over the coming weeks, while taking care of your own wellbeing is paramount.

Patient safety must always be the priority, and I hope that you feel able to speak up if you have any concerns. I understand that this is not always straightforward, and that it can be an uncomfortable step to take. Your clinical director or governance teams can provide you with advice and our speaking up resources offer additional support. We also provide information on working under pressure, which you may find helpful, or may wish to share with colleagues.

If you are working over the festive period, I hope that you will be able to find some moments for rest, recovery and connection.

The work you do is respected and appreciated much more than you probably realise and deeply valued by the people and communities who rely on you. Don’t forget that the care you provide touches people’s lives in ways that aren’t always visible, and that the difference you make endures beyond this moment.

With all good wishes,

Carrie MacEwen

Chair of the General Medical Council