A professional peer support session is a gathering where individuals within a specific profession or field can connect and support each other with similar experiences or challenges to offer mutual support and understanding. These sessions will be in-person and often involve sharing personal stories, listening to others, and offering empathy and validation. They provide a safe space to connect, build relationships, and learn from each other's professional experiences within primary care. The goal is to foster a sense of community, reduce isolation, and provide a safe space for colleagues to discuss difficult or challenging topics.
"A problem shared is a problem halved". The idea suggests that individuals learn best when they can discuss, reflect and act. They differ from other analytical processes such as "root cause analysis" as they enabled as evolving solution and depend upon conversation, constructive comment and challenge.
These sessions will be facilitated by Dr Martin von Fragstein. BMedSci. BM. BS. MMedSci. MRCGP. DGM. DLM, GP Early Careers Lead, Suffolk and North East Essex.
Dr. Martin von Fragstein Dr. is an experienced GP with a diverse background in primary care, academic medicine, substance misuse, and forensic medicine. He has held senior roles including Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, Clinical Director for Drugs and Alcohol in Derby, and Clinical Lead in Forensic Medicine across Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.
Now based in East Anglia, he serves as GP Early Careers Lead for the Suffolk and North East Essex Training Hub, supporting workforce development and wellbeing initiatives. He is also a salaried GP in Beccles, where he is Deputy Safeguarding Lead and Clinical Lead for Mental Health, with a special interest in learning disabilities, neurodiversity, and trans health.