SAS Week 2025
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SAS advocate role and SAS wellbeing
We shared the views on the importance of advocacy and a case study on how the role has made a positive impact for one trust. Make sure you view our SAS advocate infographic that highlights the key role and responsibilities.
Poster
Use our poster created in partnership with the BMA and NHS England that highlights the roles of the SAS advocate and SAS tutor and explaining the differences and benefits of having both in your organisation.
Case study
"The SAS advocate role was introduced to provide a unifying link, creating opportunities for connection, shared dialogue, and a platform to raise and address common issues."
Sheffield Children's Trust transformed its culture and raised the profile of its SAS workforce with help from the SAS advocate. Read the case study.
Blogs
Dr Girish Kunigiri, Chief Medical Officer, Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust Dr Imran Sharieff, SAS advocate and SAS anaesthetist, University College Hospital London NHS Foundation Trust - Dr Girish Kunigiri, highlights the vital role SAS doctors play in his mental health trust, providing continuity of care for its many patients with complex long-term mental health needs.
- Dr Imran Sharieff explains why he believes SAS advocates are essential.
SAS tutor spotlight
Rosemary is an experienced SAS doctor who has built a career rooted in compassionate patient care, medical education, and inclusive leadership. Originally entering the role as an international medical graduate, she has embraced the evolving opportunities within the SAS grade—balancing clinical practice with mentoring, strategic collaboration, and advocacy for professional growth.
"I have been an SAS doctor since 2008. Although I did not initially choose this path. As an IMG, I was unfamiliar with the grade. It was circumstances that led me here, and I have embraced the role ever since.
"The SAS grade allows me to deliver direct clinical care, which remains a core passion. It also enables me to teach and supervise junior doctors. The role has evolved significantly; SAS doctors are no longer limited to service provision but are now encouraged to engage in leadership and management responsibilities.
"This career path offers an excellent work-life balance, providing stability and continuity that fosters strong patient relationships and long-term care.
"Serving as an SAS tutor has been particularly rewarding. It has allowed me to support colleagues in their professional development and build valuable networks across different trusts.
"Throughout my career, I have developed and demonstrated strong leadership capabilities. As an SAS tutor, I have led initiatives to enhance professional development and foster a supportive learning environment. I have contributed to strategic discussions, collaborated across departments, and mentored peers to help them navigate their own career paths. My leadership style is inclusive and focused on empowering others, ensuring that goals are met while maintaining high standards of patient care."
SAS advocate spotlight
Kehinde Onipede is a SAS advocate who provides support for SAS doctors, amplifying their voices at trust level, and promoting career opportunities. Backed by LPFT’s inclusive and collaborative culture, Kehinde contributes to leadership discussions and ensures SAS doctors are recognised for their vital contributions to patient care and organisational growth.
"In my capacity as a SAS advocate within my trust, I have had the privilege of representing the interests and professional development needs of SAS doctors across the organisation. The role encompasses offering support and guidance to colleagues, ensuring that their voices are heard at Trust level, and contributing to initiatives that enhance both professional growth and staff wellbeing.
"LPFT has been consistently supportive of this role, recognising the importance of strengthening the visibility and contribution of SAS doctors. The trust has provided the necessary time and resources to carry out advocacy responsibilities effectively, as well as opportunities for engagement in leadership discussions and organisational development.
"The culture within LPFT is one that values inclusivity, collaboration, and professional recognition. Through its encouragement, I have been able to promote career development opportunities for SAS colleagues, highlight their essential contributions to patient care, and ensure their perspectives are represented in decision-making processes.
The trust’s commitment to the SAS workforce demonstrates a forward-looking approach, ensuring equity of opportunity and recognition for all medical colleagues. I am grateful for the strong support that LPFT has provided, which has enabled me to fulfil the responsibilities of the SAS Advocate role with confidence and effectiveness."
