Making Space for Listening:  What does it really take?

In this workshop we will consider what it really means to make the space for listening to each other in the context of an appraisal session, building on the themes covered in the plenary session. We are living with significant challenges as we find our way through the pandemic response, and there is something about acknowledging the impact of this on appraisers as much as on the people being appraised. Rather than applying a blanket label of 'well-being', we will consider the different issues and perspectives which both help and hinder us from being able to be fully present, and to listen fully to someone else. In informal small break-out sessions as part of the workshop, there will be the opportunity to consider the issues and dilemmas faced as an appraiser, and the impact of appraisal on our own sense of well-being. We will explore how the space for peer-to-peer support can be helpful both in managing and reviewing our experiences of the appraisal process.

By the end of the session participants will:

• Have considered what we mean by ‘well-being discussion’ in medical appraisals.
• Have explored how to discuss issues brought up in an appraisal.
• Be aware of the impact challenges the doctor brings to an appraisal can have on the appraiser.
• Have considered the role of peer support for appraisers.