Fostering Respect
RANZCOG supports the cultivation of respectful O&G workplaces and training environments, free from bullying, harassment and discrimination.
RANZCOG
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
CONTACT
Carly Moorfield
Trainee Support Liaison and Fostering Respect Project Lead
traineeliaison@ranzcog.edu.au
It is in everyone’s interest to foster a culture of respect in medical workplaces: teams perform better, individuals are empowered to do their best work and risks to patient safety are reduced.
This stance aligns with our values of kindness, integrity and respect.
Discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment and harassment surveys
In 2023, we conducted a member and trainee survey on the prevalence of discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment and harassment (DBSH) in O&G. This followed on from our 2016 and 2021 surveys.
The College contracted BPA Analytics to conduct its 2021 and 2023 surveys and collate the results. These surveys were confidential and anonymous; RANZCOG received only de-identified, aggregated data. Please view BPA’s Privacy and Confidentiality Policy.
Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Advisory Working Group
In 2021 RANZCOG convened the independent BHD Advisory Working Group to inform our work in preventing mistreatment in O&G. The working group made 24 recommendations to the College Board, which the Board accepted.
Our Fostering Respect Action Plan (see above) outlines how we will implement the recommendations.
BHD Advisory Working Group background
The BHD Advisory Working Group provided recommendations to the Board on how RANZCOG could support and advocate for the prevention of mistreatment in O&G.
In preparing their report, the Advisory Working Group drew on the following research and consultation:
2021 RANZCOG Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination survey
submissions from RANZCOG members and trainees;
consultation with College committees.
Working group members
There were six members of the BHD Advisory Working Group:
Jane Bell, Chair (Australia)
Dr Helen Szoke AO, Deputy Chair (Australia)
Ria Earp (Aotearoa New Zealand)
Prof Maxine Morand (Australia)
Prof Ron Paterson ONZM (Aotearoa New Zealand)
Michael Gorton AM (Australia)
Confidential support for members
We are committed to supporting the wellbeing of our members and trainees. If you have encountered discrimination, bullying or harassment in your workplace, we encourage you to seek confidential support.