"Hi, I'm Louise, and I've served as SHSC's SAS Advocate since November 2022. Currently, I work as a Specialist Doctor in The Early Intervention Service. I've been an SAS doctor for nearly 20 years, and during this time, I've witnessed the role evolve in many positive ways. Being an SAS doctor offers the opportunity to build a portfolio career or focus on specific areas of interest. Over the years, I've had the privilege of working in CAMHs and General Adult psychiatry, which would have been challenging through a traditional training route. These experiences have allowed me to develop a variety of skills, which now prove invaluable in my role within the EIS.

"The SAS Advocate role was introduced as part of the new 2021 contract, and I feel honoured to support other SAS doctors at SHSC, ensuring they make the most of their jobs and careers. Over the coming days, you'll see SAS doctors in various roles throughout SHSC. Since taking on the role of Advocate, I've enjoyed meeting and getting to know the other SAS doctors working here. We hold regular meetings to address concerns and share opportunities for development. I also work closely with other groups, such as the Medical Workforce Planning Group, to ensure that the opinions and views of SAS doctors are represented. I co-chair the national SAS Advocate Network, where we regularly share ideas and examples to promote SAS doctors' well-being.

"A notable development in the 2021 SAS contract was the introduction of the new senior grade, Specialist Doctor. Within SHSC, seven SAS doctors were transferred to the new Specialist Doctor grade. We've recently appointed another Specialist Doctor, bringing the total to eight. This represents 38% of the SAS workforce and demonstrates SHSC's commitment to encouraging SAS doctors' development and career progression. We also adhere to the terms of the SAS charter, established in 2014 by the BMA and NHS Employers, to support doctors' development and workplace opportunities.

"Within SHSC, SAS doctors work in various leadership roles and are supported by SHSC's organisational endorsement with the Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management. Throughout SHSC, SAS doctors actively contribute to research and development and serve as medical appraisers.

"I believe it's an exciting time to be an SAS Advocate within SHSC, with numerous opportunities available for SAS doctors, and I look forward to celebrating the remarkable contributions of SHSC's SAS doctors during SAS Doctors' Week."