EDI&S SO02 The Aspire Initiative: A Community-Based Intervention to Champion Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the Future Surgical Workforce

Abstract Background In March 2021, the Royal College of Surgeons of England published The Kennedy Report, an independent and powerful review addressing the critical issues surrounding equality, diversity and inclusion within the surgical profession. Chapter 5 of the review states that aspirations to become a surgeon can begin whilst at secondary school, yet students from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds felt discouraged by teachers who doubted their potential. We describe the development and implementation of a strategic careers outreach initiative across the state-funded secondary schools in our diverse community, aiming to engage and support aspiring surgeons early in their journey. Method In June 2023, The Aspire Initiative was launched as an independent entity supported by surgeons from the local Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Unit and sponsorship from the Royal College of Surgeons of England. Targeting students aged 13 to 17, the initiative offers community open events, inspiring video content, surgical work experience for those over 16, and outreach careers assemblies. Between November 2023 and March 2024, 13 assemblies were delivered at various state-funded secondary schools across Leicester. These sessions were led by surgeons reflecting ethnic, gender, and socio-economic diversity. Students were invited to complete surveys before and after the assembly to assess their impact. Results The pre-session survey, completed by 874 students from Years 8-11, revealed that 149 aspired to be doctors or surgeons, while 243 were considering this (n=392). Of the 392 students, 57% reported that their parents had not attended university. Only 19% had a good understanding of the medical school application process, and 21% knew about the support available. Furthermore, 31% felt knowledgeable about the daily responsibilities and training pathways of medical professionals. The post-session survey, with 420 responses, showed significant improvements: 91% gained a better understanding of a surgical career and 52% felt more inspired and motivated to pursue their aspirations. Conclusion The Kennedy Report recommended that careers outreach to diverse communities should be planned for as a strategic priority. This study highlights the impact of such initiatives in state-funded secondary schools, showing how they provide students from diverse social backgrounds with crucial insights into surgical careers. These programs help students make informed decisions and inspire them to pursue their aspirations by connecting with relatable role models. We propose that engaging with students at the secondary school level offers an ideal opportunity for surgeons to foster and sustain professional relationships with a diverse future workforce, laying foundations for continued support and mentorship.