How did training in North West London prepare you for the next step in your career?

Training in North West London was pivotal in preparing me for the next steps in my career. In my first year I was based at St Bernard’s Hospital and this is what sparked my interest in Forensic Psychiatry. I was able to gain lots of experience within this setting and applied for higher training in this specialty. I found that in general my supervisors were very keen to develop this interest and would allow me to join them for assessments and other interesting activities (such as attending court). Within higher training, I found that I was encouraged to apply for various opportunities and the postgraduate department were always very supportive and provided lots of guidance. The other trainees were also incredibly helpful and I found that there was a supportive environment within my peers. This is why I was keen to stay on within the Trust I worked in for my first Consultant role.

Why did you choose to train in North West London?

My initial desire to train as a core trainee in North West London was due to location. It was the closest deanery to where I grew up and my family and friends were living. I completed my foundation training in the West Midlands and although it was a really good experience, I missed the city that I grew up and went to Medical School in. However, I really enjoyed my core training at the trust I was working in and felt well supported. I also wanted to apply for higher training in Forensic Psychiatry and was aware of the vast training experience that North West London offered (including Broadmoor Hospital) and so chose to apply for higher training within this deanery.

What have been the best aspects of your training experience?

My favourite placements have been the ones that I have been really welcomed by the team and my supervisor. I have also really enjoyed the various projects that I have been involved. A particular memorable post for me was working on an Adolescent Forensic unit as this combined my interest in Forensic Psychiatry and CAMHS.

Why was Psychiatry your chosen specialty?

I have always had an interest in Psychiatry. My family are from Sri Lanka and I was always mindful of the effects of war trauma on individuals and how different people cope. There is also a lot of stigma around mental health issues within the community. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy my psychiatry placement in Medical School but did conduct a small part of my elective within CAMHS which I found really interesting. I chose CAMHS as a rotation for F2 and that sealed my decision to apply for Core Psychiatry.

What would your advice be to new trainees to get the most out of their training experience?

To try and get as involved as possible. Speak to the postgraduate team and DME about opportunities that are available that you can get involved in.

Also, speak to more senior colleagues about any interesting projects that you can jump on and gain experience in.

Try and choose rotations in specialties that you have an interest in (eg, liaison psych or perinatal psych). Often these posts are really popular so ensure that you speak to your TPD to discuss further. Also, the reality of working in a specialty is sometimes different from what you expect it to be so it is always a good idea to try and get a placement in it to see what it is like.