After the publication of a joint statement from the Royal College of Surgeons of England and the Women in Surgery Forum response to sexual assault in surgery testimonials, the British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (BAOMS) acknowledged the bravery of those testifying incidents of sexual harassment or assault in surgery and expressed their disappointment in failings identified.

The Council statement said: 'Sexual assault in surgery: a painful truth by Simon Fleming and Rebecca Fisher, published in the RCS England Bulletin and the response by P Jackson a few days ago has started a difficult conversation for us to look at the type of behaviours that we know should have no place in the surgical profession.

'We stand alongside the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCSEng) in acknowledging the bravery of those testifying incidents of sexual harassment or assault in surgery.

'As one of the ten recognised UK surgical specialties, we hold that such behaviour brings our professions into disrepute, is not, and will never be acceptable. We share the disappointment that colleagues directly affected in such a way have been failed by systems currently in place.

'BAOMS has come a long way in embracing and implementing all aspects of Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity. Acting in a positive way to address this particular form of unacceptable behaviour is completely in line with our previously voiced policy on Bullying, Harassment and Undermining, stated in our Face Up initiative of 2018.

'BAOMS Council stresses its wholehearted commitment to advise and support ANY OMFS colleagues affected by inappropriate or discriminatory behaviour. We will strive consistently to ensure the surgical arena is a safe place to work for all, irrespective of all protected characteristics including gender, race, religion, disability and sexual orientation.'