Support options - West Midlands
Less Than Full Time Training (LTFT)
Doctors in training can request to work less than full time where they are unable to work full-time.
For more details click here.
If you are on a Tier 2 or Skilled Worker visa please make sure the LTFT percentage you apply for complies with the requirements of your visa. The sponsorship team have a full list of FAQs which can be found here.
Out of Programme (OOP) and your sponsorship
Not every doctor or dentist in training will complete their training within identical timeframes and pathways. Sometimes consideration may be to take some time Out of Programme to allow you to manage your wellbeing or to pursue other training opportunities.
As an IMG, if you are considering going Out of Programme Guidance (OOP) you should consider the implications this may have on your sponsorship as the requirements vary on the different categories of OOP.
More information is provided here and here.
Inter-deanery transfer
This policy aims to support postgraduate doctors in training who have had an unforeseen and significant change in circumstances since accepting an offer of a post in training programme, or for those who, since accepting an offer, require a transfer. For more information click here.
Relocation and Expenses
Assistance for relocation expenses, including removal or excess mileage. Such claims are administered by your employer. For more information click here.
Professional Support and Wellbeing (PSW) service
Many of our doctors and dentists in training sometimes find that they need some additional support to progress through their training. This could be exam support whilst trying to balance home life, work and training. It could be related to professional skills that are needed to meet training competencies, such as confidence, communication and leadership skills. Or there could be factors related to your health and wellbeing that are impacting you at work and affecting your progress in training. The Professional Support and Wellbeing (PSW) service is available to provide short-term, solution focused interventions when you are experiencing difficulty to help you get back on track, overcome any hurdles and give you the best chance to complete training successfully.
More information about how to access the PSW service is provided here.
Your Trust Occupational Health (or for GP Doctors this is accessed via Single Lead Employer)
Supported Return to Training (SuppoRTT)
SuppoRTT applies to doctors in training who have been out of training for a period of 3 months or more for example due to: a gap in training, parental leave, sick leave/phased return or OOP (Out of Programme). SuppoRTT can offer, for example, a period of enhanced supervision, refresher courses and simulation training, mentoring or professional coaching, conferences and workshops.
More information is provided here.
Raising concerns
Where there are concerns about how training is delivered and the impact that has on the quality of the training experience, you can let someone know so that it can be explored and addressed appropriately. For more information click here.
Period of Grace
The Period of Grace enables doctors who have completed training and not yet obtained a consultant post to continue in the Specialty Registrar grade contract for a time limited period whilst they find employment. For more information click here.
Last updated: July 2024