NewcastleGateshead Quayside lights up orange with the arrival of major conference

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) will hold the only annual conference for trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology next month. Held at the Sage Gateshead, the National Trainees Conference (NTC) will play host to over 200 delegates – injecting over £110,000 into the local economy.

The RCOG strives to improve women’s healthcare across the world. With over 14,000 members worldwide, the College works with a range of partners, both in the UK and globally, to improve the standard of care delivered to women.

Professor Janice Rymer, Vice President for Education for the RCOG, said: “The NTC is a wonderful opportunity for doctors in the early stages of their careers to learn about emerging issues in obstetrics and gynaecology. The conference, which will feature scientific debates and clinical talks, will also give trainees a chance to network with leading experts and their peers. With sessions on ‘how to shine at consultant interviews,’ the conference will prepare trainees well for their future.

“Sage Gateshead is one of the most iconic buildings in the UK; and sits proudly on the south bank of the River Tyne. Newcastle, reported to be the friendliest city in the UK and home of the humble lightbulb, also has special historical ties to the College. Ernest Farquhar Murray (1886-1959), an honorary assistant gynaecologist at the Royal Victoria Infirmary and obstetrician at the Princess Mary Maternity Hospital, was a Foundation Member of the College and served on the original council.

During the conference, the RCOG will drive support for UN Women, the global champion for gender equality, by promoting the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign. In support of this year’s campaign theme, ‘Orange the World: Raise Money to End Violence against Women and Girls,’ NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau has organised for the destination’s famous Millennium Bridge to be illuminated in orange.

Paul Szomoru, head of business tourism at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “The NTC is a fantastic conference supporting the development of trainees in the industry and we were delighted to win the bid to bring it to NewcastleGateshead. Our team has supported the organisers throughout the process from securing the conference venue and accommodation allocation to illuminating the Millennium Bridge on their behalf.”