GMC tells medical schools: students must not fear consequences for reporting sexual misconduct

The General Medical Council (GMC) has written to medical schools across the UK, stressing that students should feel able to report concerns without fear of consequences, after reports that medical students are experiencing sexual misconduct and harassment.

Professor Push Mangat, the GMC’s Medical Director and Director of Education and Standards, said the reports were deeply concerning and reminded institutions of their responsibility to provide safe, inclusive, respectful learning environments, where concerns are addressed appropriately. 

The letter highlights concerns that some students may feel unable to report inappropriate behaviour because they fear negative consequences for their future careers or fitness to practise outcomes. It reiterates that they must be supported to report misconduct and that raising such concerns will not raise questions about their fitness to practise.  

Medical schools have been reminded to ensure that their students understand how and where to raise concerns, what support is available, how reports will be handled, and how they will be supported if they come forward.  

The GMC also stressed that sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, discrimination, and abuse of power are incompatible with the professional values expected of future doctors and must be addressed appropriately where concerns are substantiated.  

The GMC is currently reviewing and updating guidance on professional behaviours and student fitness to practise, reflecting the profession’s growing understanding of sexual misconduct, harassment, discrimination and abuse of power, and the need for clear expectations and effective responses when such concerns arise.

Professor Mangat said: 

‘Every medical student should be able to learn and train in an environment where they feel safe, respected, and supported, and where they are confident that concerns will be taken seriously. 

‘The reports that have emerged are deeply concerning. No student should feel unable to speak up because they fear it could affect their future career. 

‘We have written to medical schools to set out our expectations and encourage continued vigilance and action. Creating cultures where students feel able to report sexual misconduct without fear is essential, and tackling sexual misconduct, harassment, and abuse of power is a responsibility shared by all involved in medical education. 

‘Everyone involved in training our future doctors has a role to play in ensuring concerns are heard, acted upon, and that students are treated with dignity and respect.’ 

The GMC will continue to work closely with medical schools, students and placement providers to share good practice, support improvements, and ensure learning environments meet the high standards that students, patients, and the public rightly expect.