Where to Get Help: Resident Doctors

FICM’s Role in Training

The Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (FICM) sets the national standards for the Intensive Care Medicine curriculum, including ARCP requirements (see FICM’s ARCP Checklist & Guidance), expectations for training environments, and faculty roles. While FICM defines these standards, it is important to understand that their delivery and implementation are the responsibility of the Statutory Education Bodies (SEBs) and Deaneries.

FICM is responsible for appointing ICM Faculty Tutors and Regional Advisors (RAs). However, the appointment of Training Programme Directors (TPDs) and Postgraduate Deans falls under the remit of the SEBs/Deaneries who are responsible for overseeing the delivery and assessment of training.

In addition to curriculum oversight, FICM sets expectations for high-quality training environments through:

• The GPICS standards
• National guidance for Faculty Tutors and Training Units
• Training Capacity Assessment Guidance

FICM does not have jurisdiction over employment, disciplinary, or educational proceedings, and cannot intervene in formal matters, except where explicitly responsible (e.g., Faculty Tutor or Regional Advisor roles). For formal concerns, Intensivists in Training (IiTs) should refer to the relevant stakeholder or governing body. However, should you have any curriculum or standards-related queries, please do not hesitate to contact us via: contact@ficm.ac.uk

For most issues, your Clinical or Educational Supervisor should be your first point of contact. 

This guide is designed to support IiTs and other ICM Residents/Locally Employed Doctors (LEDs) by outlining appropriate sources of advice and support for a wide range of workplace, training, and personal concerns. It serves as an advisory and signposting tool only, and does not replace or override local procedures established by employers, SEBs, Deaneries, or COPMeD. Signposting pathways may vary depending on the nature of the issue and the individual’s employment or training status.

Additional Support Options:

• Peer Support: You may wish to speak with your Regional Specialty Training Committee (STC) representative, FICM National IiT Representatives, or your Hospital Chief Registrar for peer-led guidance and support.
• Health & Wellbeing: Support is available through your GP, local Occupational Health service, or employer-provided wellbeing programmes.
• Confidential Support: You can access confidential advice through services such as SpeakUp or your Deanery’s Professional Support and Wellbeing Service (PSW).

This guidance builds on an original escalation pathway developed by NHS Lothian.