Return to Work Community of Practice

Please see detail of the Return to Work Community of Practice Devon Training Hub have developed below, supporting those returning to practice following maternity, paternity or adoption leave.

This invitation has been extended to all those working in General Practice across the South West. All sessions are online and over a lunchtime so should be accessible to those both back at work and about to return.

Returning to work after parental leave is both professionally and personally significant. Alongside rebuilding clinical confidence, many professionals are adapting to new family responsibilities, changing priorities and different workplace dynamics. While practical guidance is important, many describe feeling isolated and lacking opportunities to connect with colleagues who truly understand the experience.

The General Practice Return to Work Community aims to provide an ongoing, supportive network where returning professionals can connect, share experiences and access practical learning throughout their transition back into practice. Rather than a one-off programme, the community offers a rolling series of facilitated sessions, allowing participants to join at different points during the year whilst still accessing the core themes that support a successful and sustainable return to work.

The community aims to:

Rebuild professional confidence.
Support wellbeing and reduce professional isolation.
Provide practical strategies for balancing work and family life.
Increase awareness of employment rights and flexible working options.
Encourage reflective practice and peer learning.
Foster a lasting community of support amongst parents who work in general practice.
Community Principles

The sessions will focus on the following themes:

Theme 1: Returning to Practice – Sharing the Journey
Theme 2: Confidence, Perfectionism and Imposter Feelings
Theme 3: Boundaries, Flexible Working and Speaking Up
Theme 4: Managing the Juggle
Theme 5: Building a Sustainable Career