Integrating primary prevention into sexual violence education for medical students: an evaluation of reported preparedness

United Kingdom (UK) and international studies indicate that a complex array of sexual misconduct and violence is being experienced within the medical profession. Despite this there is little training for medical students. In response, a pilot of sexual violence workshops was delivered to three cohorts of third-year medical students (MBChB programme) by a mixed specialism University team over a period of four years. An evaluative strategy was employed using both quantitative and qualitative methods to analyse 1771 responses to this input. The workshop was effective in increasing preparedness, with all cohorts reporting a statistically significant increase in feeling prepared to support patients and colleagues. A lack of knowledge regarding correct professional responses and reporting was a key concern. Anxiety about retribution for those reporting also emerged from the analysis. Overall, the study indicates that medical schools in the UK should embed training on sexual misconduct and violence into their clinical programmes.PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENT This paper demonstrates that targeted sexual violence workshops improve students’ perceived preparedness in recognising, responding to and reporting such misconduct. It highlights the importance of structured educational interventions to support skill development as part of core medical training, and incorporation into curriculum design. The findings support the continued development of targeted interventions and mandatory training, contributing to improved decision-making around professional standards and wellbeing in healthcare settings.