BTS responds to the WPSMS ‘Breaking the Silence’ report on sexual misconduct in healthcare

The British Thoracic Society welcomes the recent ‘Breaking the Silence’ report by the Working Party on Sexual Misconduct in Surgery (WPSMS). The findings of the report are deeply concerning and highlight an often hidden and unreported problem sadly faced by many healthcare workers. BTS strongly agrees that no one working in healthcare should be subjected to sexual misconduct, inappropriate behaviour, or sexual harassment.

‘Breaking the Silence,’ details fifteen actions to support a zero-tolerance approach to unwanted sexual behaviours at work and its recommendations are applicable to all healthcare disciplines and settings. 

BTS is committed to supporting the respiratory workforce across multiple professions, at every career stage. We encourage all members of the respiratory team to speak out and report any cases of sexual misconduct in the workplace, so it remains a safe environment, where every person is treated with respect.

The Society condemns sexual misconduct in all its forms.