Coaching and mentoring

The difference between coaching and mentoring

Coaching and mentoring are both valuable development tools for GPs, but they have different goals.

• Coaching is a structured process. A coach helps you explore your own challenges and find your own solutions. It is often used to manage work-life balance, build resilience, or navigate a career crossroads.
• Mentoring is a guidance-based relationship. A mentor is usually a more experienced colleague who shares their knowledge and provides advice. It is often used for specific career guidance or to develop particular skills.

NHS Scotland GP Coaching Service

This is a free and confidential coaching service for all GPs in Scotland. It is funded by the Scottish Government and managed by NHS Education for Scotland (NES).

The service is for any GP who may be feeling stuck, facing challenges, or considering their future in the profession. It provides up to seven hours of support with a professionally qualified coach. This can help you find a better work-life balance and feel more in control of your career.

Applications typically open in the summer or autumn each year.

Find out more about the NHS Scotland GP Coaching Service.

Other sources of support

Several national organisations provide coaching, mentoring, and peer support for GPs.

NHS Education for Scotland (NES)

Beyond the specific GP Coaching Service, NES provides wider support for doctors on Turas Learn. This includes training for those who wish to become mentors and resources for professional development:

• ScotGP Retain and Sustain: Role of the mentor
• Coaching and mentoring: Information pack
• Mentoring: Supporting learners in the workplace toolkit
• The Knowledge Network digital library

Regional NHS Scotland Health Boards may also offer their own internal coaching and mentoring services.

Royal College of General Practitioners

The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) runs a UK-wide mentoring platform. This service helps you connect with other members for informal peer support. You can find a mentor who has experience in an area you wish to develop.

Find out more about the RCGP mentoring scheme.

British Medical Association

The British Medical Association (BMA) offers guidance on the benefits of mentoring for doctors at all career stages. 

Read the BMA’s guidance on Mentoring for doctors.

The BMA also provide a range of courses to help you develop your own coaching and mentoring skills to support your colleagues and teams.

Find out more about Coaching and mentoring for everyone – your future/their future – recorded webinar.

Is coaching or mentoring right for you?

These services can be helpful at any point in your career.

You might find coaching or mentoring useful if you are:

• a newly qualified GP finding your feet
• considering a change in your career path, such as partnership or a portfolio role
• feeling stressed or at risk of burnout
• looking to develop your leadership skills
• planning for the later stages of your career or retirement

These confidential services offer a safe space for you to reflect on your professional life.

Related content

The following organisations and resources provide direct access to coaching and mentoring services:

• Leading to Change—Learn more about the NHS Scotland GP Coaching Service.
• RCGP Mentoring—Find a peer mentor through the national RCGP platform.
• BMA—Discover courses on developing coaching and mentoring skills.
• GLADD (The Association of LGBTQ+ Doctors and Dentists)—Find a mentor who shares your professional interests.
• Scottish Mentoring Network—Use the SMN map to find mentors wherever you are in Scotland.

These resources can help you find the support you need for your professional career development.