Letters to the Editor

I read the guest editorial by Conor O'Malley in January's issue with a heavy heart. In his article, Conor gives a painfully honest account of his fitness to practice (FtP) case, and issues around it. He should be held up as an example of professional bravery for his honesty in reflection.

Unfortunately, his case is not unique, and I have recently supported a colleague through the fitness to practice process, made worse when he was abandoned by his indemnity organization. In both cases, it is clear that there is no clear general support accessible by practitioners during and after an FtP case. Such support is essential, as a registrant faced with FtP will be assailed by a range of emotions and self doubts, with a high risk of developing or exacerbating mental health issues during and after the process. Support needed will vary from counselling and psychological therapies, through educational support, guidance in reflection, mentoring, and even financial advice.