Mentoring for NHS general practitioners: a prospective pilot study of an action learning approach

Abstract

The mentoring intervention piloted in this study demonstrates a feasible approach to identifying and developing learning needs. Small numbers in the study make it difficult to attribute this specifically to the action learning approach taken. However, the framework presented was recognised as useful by the mentors. Future work will aim to identify if the approach is due to action learning specifically or the more general effect of counselling.

Exploring the relationship between mentoring and doctors’ health and wellbeing: a narrative review

“…17 Peer-mentors in the study conducted by Eisen et al also felt that mentoring led to personal development due to enhanced listening skills and a structured problem solving approach. 22 However, Mann, Ball 23 reported drawbacks, describing adverse issues experienced by three mentees and one mentor throughout a mentoring scheme; one scheme participant withdrew due to emerging mental health issues, one felt it was not the right time to continue, and one mentee remained in the scheme but found engagement difficult and did not achieve positive outcomes. The mentor of the mentee with mental health issues also experienced adverse effects from the encounter which affected their own health and well-being.…”

“…22,24 Whilst Welch, Jimenez 24 reported the benefits of mentoring as being similar for peer mentors and mentees, two of the studies described the impact that mentoring specifically had on mentors' consultation skills, 17,22 with one mentor describing mentoring as enabling them to 'take a more egalitarian approach to patients'. 17 Participation in mentoring was reported as having a positive impact on mentees': job satisfaction; 17 professional outlook; 22 educational support; 22,30 increased energy levels and motivation; 23 as well as support when faced with professional disappointment or failure. 31 Five papers proposed mentoring improved mentees' clinical skills.…”

“…7 Papers described engagement in mentoring as leading to accomplishment in the form of personal development. Of the small number of studies describing specific aspects of personal development, mentoring was reported as leading to improved confidence, 22,23,25 increased energy levels 23 and better stress management, 22,25 as well as helping mentees grow socially, 26 emotionally, 26,27 and intellectually. 27 One study proposed three broad areas of benefit, and underlying processes that overlapped in mentoring;…”

“…[43][44][45] Of the seven research papers that discussed a mentoring scheme, only three stated mentors had undergone training. 22,23,25 Financial and resource implications on health service provision may impact upon the availability of support mechanisms such as mentorship, however, without adequate preparation for the mentor/mentee role the quality of the resulting support may be variable and unsustainable. 22,23 The final component of the BITC Workwell model is 'better work'.…”

“…22,23,25 Financial and resource implications on health service provision may impact upon the availability of support mechanisms such as mentorship, however, without adequate preparation for the mentor/mentee role the quality of the resulting support may be variable and unsustainable. 22,23 The final component of the BITC Workwell model is 'better work'. All of the evidence reviewed referred to mentoring as supporting individuals to work 'better' in some way including improvement of clinical skills, provision of career support, or improved work-life balance.…”