Over the last few years, there has been increased recognition of both the status and the need for an equivalent route into training that the CESR route provides, and it has been pleasing to see its ongoing development. It is essential that this continues as we see an increasing demand for psychiatrists at all levels to fill posts alongside an increasing need for mental health provision for our populations at all stages of their lives. The development of the CESR pathway must go hand in hand with good quality opportunities for doctors to gain essential competencies and skills in a timely way throughout their medical careers. Flexibility in training routes must be an essential requirement to build a sustainable workforce over the next decade and beyond.