I am worried that only the 5 years prior to Portfolio Pathway application is looked at and this will jeopardise my application if I take, for example, maternity leave. Is this true?

The time frame for currency of evidence is set by the GMC as it is vital for patient safety that pertinent competency and engagement is current and is highlighted in page 6 of the SSG. In the portfolio pathway compared to previous CESR pathways, there is less requirement for currency of evidence, but it is still there. However, the SSG acknowledges that doctors take time out of work for many reasons including parenting, health, and caring responsibilities, and as such stipulates that there can be a little flexibility on timeframes; we suggest you discuss this with the local CSRH Training Programme Director prior to application to prevent misunderstanding and disappointment.