Professionals’ views and experiences of the TrainDEEP (TRaining Assistance INitiative in DEep End Practices) pilot: transforming GP practices into training practices in disadvantaged areas in the North East of England

Background The North East and North Cumbria Deep End Network (NENC DE) comprises of general practitioners (GPs) and primary care staff serving the most socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. GPs often work in practices where they have trained, yet there are fewer training practices in the DE, limiting recruitment opportunities. TrainDEEP aims to increase training practice numbers, to enhance GP recruitment, and to improve healthcare access for communities with the greatest need.

Aim This study aimed to explore the views and experiences of professionals involved in the TrainDEEP intervention designed to transform DE practices into training practices to enhance GP recruitment and retention in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.

Design & setting A qualitative longitudinal study involving professionals working in two Deep End practices in the North East of England, who were part of the TrainDEEP intervention.

Method Semi-structured interviews conducted at two points during the 12-month intervention. Transcripts were coded inductively and thematically analysed.

Results A total of 17 interviews with 10 participants were conducted (September 2023- February 2025). Three main themes emerged: (1) becoming a training practice, including resource provision and barriers (2); training in a DE context, focusing on learning opportunities, recruitment, and retention challenges and solutions; and (3) evaluating TrainDEEP‘s success, impact on the practice, and future sustainability.

Conclusion The TrainDEEP model was successfully implemented, receiving positive feedback. This model could be expanded across the local and national DE networks to increase training practices, boosting recruitment and enhancing healthcare provision for underserved communities.