The WYAAT Endoscopy Programme has developed a network for endoscopy services in West Yorkshire and Harrogate to address challenges around staffing, increasing demand, and to ensure departments have the right equipment develop services and provide equitable care. The Network also aims to improve staff training and retention to make services sustainable and able to meet the increasing future demand.

Alongside the development of the network, NHS England has also introduced a new training pathway for endoscopists. West Yorkshire will form part of the Yorkshire Endoscopy training Academy (YETA), with Mid Yorkshire Teaching Trust hosting our regional training centre, working alongside the other trusts in West Yorkshire to deliver this new training offer. Trainees will undertake intensive training which will result in a reduction in the total time to train, leading to trainees being able to undertake independent endoscopy examinations earlier in their specialist training journey.