RCOphth welcomes agreement on the new junior doctor contract

1 June 2016

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists welcomes the agreement on the new junior contract and is hopeful that the new terms and conditions will be met positively by the majority of junior doctors at referendum.

The RCOphth noted that features of the new contract would impact ‘disproportionately on women’ and is pleased to see that this and other previously disputed areas of concern have been reviewed and developed to address the wider concerns of junior doctors. This agreement is positively supported by all those involved in what have been constructive talks and is best summarised in the ACAS statement as ‘revisions and improvements to terms and conditions to address the ongoing need to properly reward, protect and retain a valued workforce’.

The RCOphth will continue to work with other medical royal colleges, and collectively through the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, to offer support to develop improved training and better working to ensure that at all times, the best interests of patients are at the heart of any settlement.

We hope that both sides will continue to work together constructively and await the outcome of the referendum on the 6 July.

Read the BMA update and timings of the referendum https://www.bma.org.uk/collective-voice/influence/key-negotiations/terms-and-conditions/junior-doctor-contract-negotiations