There have been repeated calls from all quarters of healthcare for more clinicians to be leaders. The risks of not accepting this responsibility have been demonstrated by harrowing reports into failed care in England. Ambiguity persists over what clinical leadership encompasses, how it can be developed and how to inspire clinicians to practise it. A supportive organisational culture, dedicated resources and national support are needed to foster leadership skills among trainee clinicians. Here we discuss a possible blueprint based on the recent reviews of English NHS Trusts with high mortality rates for future initiatives in empowering medical and nursing trainees to learn from leaders and practise leadership skills.
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