More than 100 people attended the first conference set up for Black Country medical professionals which is now set to become an annual event due to its success.

The Clinical Fellowship Programme (CFP) provides opportunities for medical staff to join a structured training programme at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) in a range of clinical specialties, supporting career progression. The first CFP was attended by regional and national delegates.

Senior members of staff including Dr Brian McKaig, Chief Medical Officer at RWT, was among more than 12 speakers presenting at the event at the Wolverhampton Medical Institute Lecture Theatre at New Cross Hospital.

Jo Duckham, Programme Manager for the CFP, said feedback had been excellent. “The day involved presentations and discussions led by senior leaders within the organisations and, most importantly, from the fellows,” said Jo.

“Career guidance stations were also available for delegates through the afternoon, which were well received.

“The event is the first of its kind for the CFP and we very much look forward to hosting it on an annual basis.

“A very special thanks to Dr Roopa Chopra, our Chief Clinical Fellow and the CFP Pastoral Team – their passion and drive for supporting their peers and the programme knows no bounds.”

Claire Young, Group Deputy Director of Education and Training and Interim Programme Director for the CFP, said: “I think the conference really showcased the success of the programme and how it has developed over the years since its inception.

“It is the only programme in the country that is this well established, which is testament to the dedication of the team for developing it this far.

“Ensuring this group of Doctors have a clear pathway for developing into our Consultants of the future while meeting their diverse pastoral needs has driven the success of this programme, and we should be singing it from the rooftops. This is a massive achievement.”