A guide to peer support for GPs in Scotland

What is peer support?

Peer support brings together people with shared experiences to support one another. For GPs, this means creating a confidential environment to discuss the challenges and rewards of the job.

It’s not a formal therapy or counselling service, but it does encourage supportive conversation between peers. Groups can be structured and facilitated, or they can be informal networks of trusted colleagues.

The benefits of peer support

Engaging with peer support can have a significant positive impact on your professional life and personal wellbeing.

Reduces professional isolation

Working as a GP can sometimes feel isolating. Meeting with peers helps you realise you are not alone in the challenges you face. It helps to build a sense of community and belonging.

Provides a safe space to talk

Peer groups are confidential spaces. You can talk openly about difficult cases, workplace pressures, or the emotional impact of your work. This can help to reduce stress and prevent burnout.

Improves your practice

Sharing experiences and discussing clinical cases with colleagues is a valuable form of learning. You can gain new perspectives, share best practices, and improve your clinical skills in a supportive environment.

Find a peer support group in Scotland

Several organisations in Scotland facilitate peer support groups for doctors.

Connect with your local RCGP Faculty

The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) has local faculties across the UK, including three in Scotland. Your local faculty is your connection to a professional community of GPs in your area.

Faculties provide a strong support network for their members. They organise local events, deliver high-quality CPD, and give you a collective voice on issues that matter. Joining your local faculty is an excellent way to meet colleagues and build your professional connections.

Find your local RCGP faculty.

British Medical Association

The British Medical Association (BMA) runs a free, confidential peer support service. It connects you with a trained GP who can provide a listening ear. This is available to all doctors, not just BMA members.

Find out more about the BMA’s counselling and peer support services.

Local Medical Committees (LMCs)

Your local LMC is a good source of information on peer support networks in your health board area. Some LMCs run their own formal peer support schemes or can connect you with informal local groups.

Find a list of Scottish LMCs on the BMA website.