I had my second meeting on Monday. Only 6 turned up, but had emails from others who had hoped to attend and couldn't, and another actually came to find me today to say he wished he had come. For once I think that SAS doctors here are feeling like they all want to be involved in something. The meeting was very like the first one, with the same issues being raised. Overwhelmingly the issue of the new contract and especially re-grading is being talked about as a source of great frustration. I have received several emails about the subject too. I will have to do something about this with HR and maybe involve the BMA with my LNC hat on. I have heard today that some SAS doctors aren't managing to get appraisals as their consultants say that they haven't been trained in being appraisers, so won't do them until they have. That seems a bit harsh as it is required for revalidation. I am planning on going on an appraisal training course, but am not sure if I can appraise those not in my specialty.
All in all a positive start and positive feedback from those who attended, who appear to be grateful for me taking on the post, and are keen for more such meetings.
I think that I will have another similar meeting about every 6 months to catch those who could'nt come, and to update the others.