GPs at the Deep End is an initiative that aims to reduce health inequalities through providing peer support, advocacy, training and research opportunities to primary care clinicians working in disadvantaged areas.
GPs and researchers at the Centre for Academic Primary Care at the University of Bristol have been awarded funding to establish a GPs at the Deep End network in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG).
Over 15% of Bristol residents live in the most deprived areas in England and, within BNSSG, considerable health inequalities exist, with life expectancy reduced by nine years for those living in the most deprived areas compared to the most affluent areas.
Burn-out and clinician retention in these challenging but incredibly rewarding areas are important issues. We want to help address this through GP fellowships, GP registrar training schemes, creating a supportive community and providing research opportunities to improve the representation of our often excluded patients.