NHS Consultant Salary: Monthly Take-Home Pay for International Doctors in Scotland For international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in NHS jobs in Scotland, understanding what an NHS consultant salary translates to in monthly take-home pay is essential for financial planning. To assist overseas doctors in preparing for life in the UK, we’ve provided examples to give you a clearer idea of your potential monthly earnings. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, your take-home pay is the amount you receive in your bank account after all mandatory deductions from your annual salary. These deductions include: Income Tax National Insurance contributions NHS pension payments Our figures serve as a general guideline. They are based on the gross salary for each pay scale and assume no additional sources of income. However, your actual take-home pay can vary based on: Additional responsibilities or extra hours worked Other income sources Your final tax bracket Decisions regarding NHS pension contributions Claims for tax-deductible expenses Take-Home Pay Expectations in Scotland For NHS consultants in Scotland, the monthly take-home pay will depend on these factors. Use our examples as a starting point, but remember that actual earnings can differ. To get the most accurate information for your specific situation, consult with an IMG specialist or financial advisor. Understanding how NHS consultant salaries translate into monthly take-home pay will help you effectively plan your finances and ensure a smooth transition to your new role in Scotland. Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £107,144 £67,394 £5,616 2 £109,407 £68,084 £5,673 3 £112,662 £69,077 £5,756 4 £115,921 £70,071 £5,839 5 £119,170 £71,061 £5,921 6 £126,905 £73,761 £6,146 7 £134,640 £77,628 £6,469 8 £142,369 £81,493 £6,791 *before tax and pension **based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions To explore detailed information on NHS pay scales and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, check out our comprehensive series of blogs on career structure and NHS doctor pay in our IMG Resources library. These resources are designed to help international doctors understand their earning potential at various stages of their careers in the NHS.

Are you an international doctor considering a move to the UK and curious about NHS pay in Wales? Understanding what an NHS consultant salary means in terms of monthly take-home pay is crucial for your financial planning. To help overseas doctors like you prepare for life in the UK, we've put together practical examples to illustrate what you can realistically expect to keep each month in Wales. These insights aim to make your transition smoother and more informed. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, your take-home pay is the amount that reaches your bank account after mandatory deductions, such as Income Tax, National Insurance, and NHS pension contributions, have been made from your annual salary. Please note that these figures are intended as a guideline. We've based them on gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no other sources of income. Your actual take-home pay may vary depending on factors like additional responsibilities, extra hours worked, other income sources, your tax bracket, pension choices, and any tax-deductible expenses you claim. By providing these examples, we aim to support your journey towards a fulfilling career in the NHS and a well-prepared life in Wales. Take-Home Pay Expectations in Wales Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £106,000 £70,841 £5,903 2 £111,300 £72,855 £6,071 3 £116,600 £74,869 £6,239 4 £121,900 £76,883 £6,406 5 £130,380 £80,887 £6,740 6 £137,800 £84,820 £7,068 7 £146,280 £89,314 £7,442 8 £154,760 £93,809 £7,817   *based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions To explore doctor pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, including NHS pay in Wales, check out our series of blogs on career structure and NHS salaries in our IMG Resources library.

As we continue on our journey through UK Life & Culture we land on one of IMG Connects favorite topics of all – Sport! Britain most definitely is a sporting nation and with events running throughout the whole year there are so many amazing events for IMGs to enjoy once living in the UK – no matter where you live.  So what are our 6 must-see British Sporting events? Let’s find out….. The British invented many of the sports we find popular in the world today including football, rugby, cricket, golf, badminton, field hockey, tennis, table tennis, snooker, curling and darts to name just a few!  Football - English & Scottish Premier Leagues When: August to May Where: Throughout the UK Like the rest of the world, football is huge in the UK, and with more big teams than ever challenging for the championship, it’s a hugely exciting time to watch British football. Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham represent the biggest clubs in England. However, with recent successes from teams like Newcastle United and Brighton, the competition is fiercer than ever. In Scotland, the passion for football is just as intense. The 2023-24 season sees Celtic and Rangers, two of the biggest clubs in Britain, battling it out once more for the Scottish title. Did you know? The 2022-23 English Premier League season saw Arsenal mount a strong challenge for the title, ultimately finishing second. Bukayo Saka, one of their star players, became the first English player under the age of 22 to score 10+ goals and provide 10+ assists in a single Premier League season, showcasing the incredible young talent in the league. Cricket & The Ashes When: Throughout the summer Where: Throughout the UK Cricket, a quintessentially English sport, is beloved worldwide, especially in countries like India, Pakistan, Australia, and Sri Lanka. Whether it’s T20, one-day internationals, or a full Test match, there are countless great cricket matches to attend in the UK. Each offers a fantastic day out with friends or family. 2023 was a memorable year for cricket, with England reclaiming the Ashes on home soil. The summer of 2024 will feature thrilling Test series and T20 matches, continuing the legacy of exciting cricket. Did you know? The term 'Ashes' was first used after England lost to Australia, for the first time on home soil, at The Oval on 29th August 1882. A day later, the Sporting Times carried a mock obituary of English cricket which concluded that: "The body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia". Tennis & Wimbledon When: July Where: London Wimbledon is famous worldwide for its prestigious grass-court Grand Slam event, held in southwest London. The tournament has produced some of the greatest matches and rivalries in tennis history, from McEnroe vs. Borg to Federer vs. Nadal. Getting tickets for Centre Court can be challenging, but soaking in the atmosphere on Murray Mound (formerly Henman Hill) is an experience in itself. Did you know? As of 2024, Novak Djokovic has equaled Roger Federer's record with eight Wimbledon titles, and Iga Świątek is emerging as a new dominant force in women’s tennis. Snooker & World Snooker Championship When: April to May Where: Crucible Theatre, Sheffield The World Snooker Championship is the pinnacle of snooker, held annually at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. It’s a must-see for any snooker fan, offering two weeks of intense and thrilling competition. Did you know? The 2023 World Championship saw Luca Brecel become the first player from continental Europe to win the title, marking a new era in snooker. Athletics & London Marathon When: April Where: London Whether running or spectating, the London Marathon is a spectacular event. Starting in Blackheath and finishing in The Mall near St James’s Park, the course covers 42 kilometers and passes many iconic London landmarks. The 2024 marathon promises to be another record-breaking event, with thousands of runners raising millions for charity. It’s a fantastic day out for the family, even if you’re not running. Did you know? In 2023, over £70 million was raised for charity, setting a new global record for a single event. Six Nations Rugby When: February to March Where: Various locations across the UK, Ireland, France, and Italy Rugby is a thrilling sport, and the Six Nations Championship is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar. The tournament features England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy in a fierce battle for supremacy. Rugby is a spectacle to watch live, with its fast-paced, hard-hitting action. The tournament also boasts a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great day out for families. Did you know? Ireland won the 2023 Six Nations Grand Slam, continuing their strong form as they head into 2024 as one of the favorites. So, there we have it—just a small selection of the diverse sports that make up our British sporting cultural landscape. P.S. Any hockey or golf fans, sorry I missed you out! IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:              

Are you an international medical graduate considering a move to the Island of Jersey? Nestled between the English Channel and France, Jersey offers a unique blend of British and French cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and a host of activities to enjoy during downtime. Here are the top 5 places you must visit in Jersey. 1. St. Helier: The Vibrant Capital St. Helier, the capital of Jersey, is a vibrant hub of activity and a great place to start exploring the island. Explore the picturesque marina, shop at quaint village markets, and indulge in some delicious local cuisine, offering the freshest produce, at one of the many independent cafes and restaurants. - Elizabeth Castle - Central Market - Maritime Museum   2. Mont Orgueil Castle: A Medieval Marvel Perched on the east coast of Jersey, Mont Orgueil Castle offers unmatched views of endless coastline over the harbour of Gorey and the French coast beyond. This medieval castle has been standing for over 800 years and is rich in history. Explore its staircases, hidden rooms, and enjoy the various exhibitions detailing the Castle's storied past. - Stunning coastal views - Historical exhibitions - Interactive displays   3. St. Brelade's Bay: Beachside Bliss (One of Jersey's most popular beaches) Head to St. Brelade's Bay for some relaxation! Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it the perfect spot for a family day out, a romantic sunset stroll, or some invigorating water sports if you're feeling extra adventurous. The bay also boasts some charming cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy the freshest seafood while basking in the vibes and taking in the views ahead. - Oyster Box  - Jersey Crab Shack St Brelade - La Brise   4. La Hougue Bie: A Step Back in Time Listed among the Top 10 Oldest Buildings in the World, La Hougue Bie is a Neolithic site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Jersey’s ancient past. - Neolithic burial mound - Archaeology museum - Medieval chapel   5. Jersey Zoo: Conservation at its Heart Founded by the famous naturalist Gerald Durrell, Jersey Zoo is not just any zoo – it's a haven for endangered species and a leader in global conservation efforts. The zoo’s dedication to preserving wildlife makes it an inspiring visit for all ages. - Gorilla Enclosure - Orangutan Island - Reptile and Amphibian House   Plan Your Visit Whether you're visiting Jersey as part of your move to the UK or simply looking for a delightful getaway, this island offers a wealth of experiences. From its vibrant capital to its serene beaches, and historic landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.   IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor's salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:                    

Just arrived in the UK, how do I set up my mobile phone? There are many things to consider when setting up your new life in the UK, one of which is how to get yourself a mobile phone contract. In this article we’ll help overseas doctors arrange a mobile phone contract by addressing the following questions:  Who are the main providers in the UK? How can I check for the best coverage in my area? What do I need to set up a contract? Can I use my current handset?  What if I plan to be in the UK less than 12 months? First, some general advice At IMG Connect we strongly recommend doing some research by using several trusted market-comparison websites and looking at the reviews to help decide on your network provider. The wrong contract might leave you stuck with a long contract, that proves to be unnecessarily expensive whilst offering poor signal in your area. If you rush this process and take out a contract that is not right, you will regret it. This comes from personal experience, so please do your homework! Main Providers in the UK The main providers are: EE 02 Vodafone Three Mobile There are numerous other providers that ‘piggy-back’ off their service, but do not have their own network. The package you can get from a ‘piggy-back’ provider is potentially cheaper than the main provider who’s service they use – however the network quality will always be poorer than the main providers. How can I check for the best coverage in my area? Make sure to check the coverage and network availability in your area by using the Ofcom mobile and broadband checker. Ofcom are the government approved authority for communications and tasked with ensuring people get the best service from their provider. You can raise any issues you have, free of charge, with Ofcom. What do I need to set up a contract? Once you’ve decided on your provider and package, most mobile phone companies will only require the following to open a contract: Two proofs of address (utility bills, rental contracts etc.) which must show both your name and address. Proof of Identification Active bank account in order to set up a direct debit Packages on offer: There are two types of package you can consider; Contract or Pay-as-you-go Contract: Most providers offer a minimum contract of 12 months, SIM only. To get a handset included as part of your contract package typically you need a 24-month contract. Pay-as-you-go: Another option to consider is a pay-as-you-go sim card with no contract or handset. This will cost about £10 and can be up and running immediately. Can I use my current mobile phone handset?  Yes, all sim-only packages will work with the device you already have. What if I plan to be in the UK less than 12 months? Whilst most IMGs prefer taking out a contract, if you do plan to be in the UK less than 12 months, a pay-as-you-go contract may be a better option. In summary: Only you will know what you are going to use your phone for, and which package will be right for you. If you are someone looking to call overseas regularly, think about WhatsApp calls, VOIP calling packages, face time etc.  With regard to phone contracts, just make sure to get a number of different quotes on similar packages and use these to try and get a bargain for yourself with one particular provider. All networks tend to be flexible at some point and the general rule is, if you don’t ask, you don’t get! IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

Navigating the financial landscape as an NHS employee, understanding various aspects, from pension contributions to childcare costs and general living expenses. In this blog, we'll break down essential information to help you manage your finances effectively. Pension Contributions: As an NHS employee, you contribute 13.5% of your income to the NHS Pension Scheme, with the NHS topping this up by 20.6%. These contributions are tax-free, reducing your taxable income. You can access a portion of your pension pot at the age of 55, with the remainder available upon retirement. Childcare Costs: Childcare options such as after-school clubs are available at most UK schools, typically running from 3:00 pm to 6:15 pm. Costs range from £10 to £20 per day on average, and you can utilize the tax-free childcare scheme to save up to 20% (up to £2,000 annually) on these expenses. Budgeting around £2,000 to £3,000 per year for part-time childcare is advisable. Rents and Bills: The cost of living in the UK, including rents and bills, varies by location. For instance, in areas like Bournemouth and Poole, rent for a 2-bed flat or terraced house near the hospital might range from £1,200 to £1,400 per month. Additional monthly expenses, including council tax, utilities, and internet, can total around £1,750 to £1,800. General Costs: Budgeting for phone contracts, groceries, and transportation is essential. Phone contracts typically range from £10 to £20 per month, while groceries may cost around £350 to £400 monthly for a healthy balanced diet. Transportation expenses, including car ownership costs and fuel, should also be considered. Navigating Financial Decisions: Opting out of the NHS Pension Scheme to increase take-home pay may seem tempting, but it's generally not advisable. Earning above £100,000 annually can result in losing tax-free allowances and government childcare benefits. Pensions become increasingly valuable in managing taxable income, particularly for senior doctors and consultants. Conclusion: Managing finances as an NHS employee requires careful planning and consideration of various expenses, including pension contributions, childcare costs, rent, bills, and general living expenses. By understanding these financial aspects, you can make informed decisions to ensure financial stability and well-being throughout your career.   IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor's salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:                    

Communities are a wonderful thing and feeling part of a community is vital to any doctor and their family looking to make a new home for themselves in the UK.  In this article we will look at seven of the communities that exist in both professional and social circle, which can help you to be happy in your new NHS job and UK home. Study preparations groups Whether it's preparing for PLAB, Royal College or IELTS exams, having friends or colleagues to revise with and push each other is incredibly important. You can find WhatsApp groups for the specific exams on our IMG Community Facebook page and we highly recommend joining a study group if you have not already. Any friends and family in the UK Make the most of any contacts you already have. Make sure to get in touch with any friends or relations let them know your relocation plans. They may give you some trusted hints and tips for the area you are moving to, or just make sure you are looked after from the moment you touch down.  Either way, building friend and family circles around you is very important. Facebook groups and the IMG Community There are many Facebook groups out there geared towards helping doctors like yourself trying to work as a doctor in the UK.  With that in mind, IMG Connect runs a vetted Facebook community that covers all the topics that you might need help or support on. This includes exam support, registration guidance, first-hand advice and knowledge on hospitals and their departments, relocation support, schooling etc. This list goes on and on!  Whatever question or help you might need, you can ask us in private or publicly to the community page, you will usually have a response in minutes.  By joining the IMG Community Facebook group you will be immediately in touch with thousands of people in very similar scenarios to yourself. Colleagues and peers in your department The relationships you hold with the people at work are hugely important; you will spend roughly 60-70% of your day working with them after all! Make sure to involve yourself with your department, the hospital as a whole and become part of the trust’s wider community.  Understanding with their values whilst engaging socially with your colleagues will go a long way to ensuring you are happy and content in your day-to-day job and make you a much better NHS doctor. GMC workshops and events As the GMC knows, adapting to a new healthcare system is hard for any doctor, regardless of experience. The GMC’s free Welcome to UK Practice workshop is designed to help doctors new to the NHS. By offering guidance on GMC and UK medical ethics, it aims to give you the confidence and assurance to make the right choices in difficult ethical scenarios.  These are of course great ways to connect with doctors in similar situations to your own, allowing you to make new friends & contacts with other doctors new to the NHS like yourself. Royal College courses, workshops and events As with the GMC, Royal Colleges in the UK run a wide variety of professional and cultural events that are often free to attend.  Take them up on opportunities to further your learning or meet interesting and influential people in your specialty! Whether it’s an art exhibition hosted by your Royal College or an amazing talk by a field specialist, being a member and part of Royal College community is a valuable thing. The local community you move to Anyone and everyone can get involved in your community. It doesn’t matter who you are, how old you are, what you believe in; there will always be something there for you. What you get in return is both priceless and invaluable whatever stage of life you are at: Meeting new people – building new friendships, improving your English, experiencing different cultures, improving relations between different communities in your area, building confidence, self-esteem and giving structure to life in the UK. Get involved in your local school, charities and parks, or look online for groups, activities and events.  And if you do it right… helping people whilst having fun! IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:                  

NHS Consultant Salary: Take-Home Pay for International Doctors in Northern Ireland For international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in working in the NHS, understanding what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in Northern Ireland is crucial for financial planning. To help overseas doctors prepare for life in the UK, we’ve compiled examples to give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to take home each month. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, take-home pay refers to the amount deposited into your bank account after all necessary deductions have been made from your annual salary. These deductions typically include: Income Tax National Insurance contributions NHS pension payments It's important to note that these figures serve as guidelines. We’ve calculated them based on the gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no other sources of income. Your actual take-home pay could vary depending on several factors, such as: Additional responsibilities or extra hours worked Other income sources Your final tax bracket Opting out of the NHS pension Claiming tax-deductible expenses Take-Home Pay Expectations in Northern Ireland For NHS consultants and specialty doctors working in Northern Ireland, your monthly take-home pay will fluctuate based on these variables. We recommend consulting with an IMG specialist to help you better understand your potential earnings and to explore ways to maximise your income. Keep in mind that NHS pay scales can be influenced by factors like experience, job responsibilities, and the specific Trust you’re employed by. By having a realistic understanding of your NHS consultant salary and how it translates into monthly take-home pay, you'll be better prepared for a successful career and life in the UK. Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £88,799 £60,533 £5,046 2 £91,581 £62,166 £5,181 3 £94,362 £63,779 £5,315 4 £97,141 £65,391 £5,449 5 £99,913 £66,999 £5,583 6 £106,520 £69,527 £5,794 7 £113,124 £72,037 £6,003 8 £119,723 £74,544 £6,212   *before tax and pension **based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions To explore detailed information on NHS pay scales and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, check out our comprehensive series of blogs on career structure and NHS doctor pay in our IMG Resources library. These resources are designed to help international doctors understand their earning potential at various stages of their careers in the NHS.

Completing your exams and registrations is one thing, moving to another country is another... All in all, IMGs aspiring to work in the NHS have an awful lot to get done. We know this and is why we exist as a company - to guide and support international doctors on their journey to becoming a doctor in the UK. Here we'll look at 7 mental approaches to making sure your early weeks, months and hopefully years in the UK are sucessful and happy ones! 1. Right mentality When approaching this new challenge, remember the right mentality is key to enjoying your new life and flourishing in your new job. It is understandable that you might be a touch nervous before moving, but whatever your mindset before leaving home try to embrace the new challenge with enthusiasm and a positive mindset. 2. Build support networks Having someone’s support is essential and even the most resilient of characters would struggle without it. Support can come from many different places and sources, from your friends or family back home or those you are closest to in the UK.  Online forums and communities, like our IMG Community, can be incredibly helpful when questions or experiences that you have and you can likely get a response in minutes to a problem that has bothered you for a while.  3. Build social and professional networks At IMG Connect we are big believer in building and utilizing the communities around us, both online and in real life. Ask your peers at work for advice where you need it and think about attending the various professional or social gatherings that you come to be aware of.  It is worth remembering, most people love to share their experiences and offer their advice, whether your peers or new friends you have made in the UK. Use these as opportunities to get to know people around you better. 4. Be socially brave and integrate with your community Always throw yourself into social scenarios and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to new people. The quicker you settle into your new job and home, the quicker you will be feeling comfortable and happy in your day to day! 5. Be patient Adjusting to a new system and new country will take time – remember that. It may take a number of months to get things where you want them and up to a year to feel at home in your new scenery. Don’t be afraid of this, just be aware and be patient. 6. Be resilient and remember why you’re doing this Deciding to relocate to the UK would certainly not have been a decision you took lightly. Remember all the reasons you took the decision to move in the first place, and don’t lost sight of them. Things will invariably get tough at some stage but keep your goals in in throughout.  7. Remember your importance and the good that you do Finally, remember the amazing things you do every day as a doctor, and what a valuable service you provide to NHS and the British population. You should never forget the importance of your job and positive impact it has on the community around you. For more useful blogs & articles on relocation, life & culture in the UK & NHS – take a look at our IMG Library. IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:              

It is a good idea for all international doctors new to working in the UK to attend a workshop, course or training programme aimed at helping doctors understand the ethical challenges faced in UK practice. We advise all IMGs to take part in the GMC workshop - 'Welcome to UK Practice'  In this short article we will explore why, focusing on the GMCs ‘Welcome to UK Practice’ training programme.  The NHS relies on overseas doctors to deliver the highest quality of healthcare, and so are now taking extra steps to ensuring that they are addressing some of the vital aspects of settling into the system that have perhaps been missed in the past, and that other healthcare systems perhaps don’t offer. As such the GMC have considered the following questions: how to provide a better induction so that doctors can practice safely how do we help doctors to work to a different set of social norms, such as when dealing with confidentiality and consent how do we ensure that overseas doctors have a successful first year in the NHS In doing so they have established the free training programme ‘Welcome to UK Practice’, which is designed to help doctors adjust and adapt to work in the UK, and subsequently the NHS. It addresses the fact that there can be differences in practicing medicine across the world, as well as the time it can take to adjust to a new culture at work. It offers practical workshops and guidance through ethical scenarios, as well as the opportunity to work with and meet other IMGs coming to practice in the UK.  The GMC also offer workshops designed to guide doctors with their practice, covering topics such as confidentiality, raising a concern, use of social media, consent & making joint decisions, and leadership & management.   We recommend attending the ‘Welcome to UK Practice’ course before you start working in the UK Or the very least just after you start your new post in the NHS. Not only will this give you a boost in terms of how to approach your new role, working with peers, senior colleagues and patients, but it will also give you a chance to discuss your concerns with doctors in similar situations. It is a great forum and platform for a successful first year in the NHS.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

Life is not all about work! It has been great to hear first-hand from overseas doctors who recently relocated to the UK the main reasons they have enjoyed their move and quickly settled into life in the UK. The UK is bursting with events and festivals from top to bottom, and these can make some of the best shared experiences for you and your family to create memorable moments.  We enjoy them so much that we have put together some of the best British cultural events that you simply have to experience!  1. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Taking place from the 2 – 24th August, this annual series of nightly performances brings the Edinburgh Skyline to life! Armed forces from the UK, across the Commonwealth and internationally, come to Edinburgh to perform. Music, dance, drama, and a mass of Pipers play against the backdrop of the castle.  2. Glastonbury Festival A five-day festival of performances, arts and crafts, Glastonbury is a community that pops up every year to enthral and bring people together. A huge line up of performers entertain over 170,000 people at the largest greenfield festival in the world! Just don’t forget your wellies (waterproof boots).  3. Chelsea Flower Show An annual garden extravaganza, bursting with creation and colour, this is not to be missed! This is regarded as the most important flower show in the world, and on your first visit you will see why! With displays of colour and cutting-edge garden design be prepared to be dazzled, just don’t expect to see any gnomes.   4. The Edinburgh Fringe Discover the world of arts in one city, an inspiring collection of the best performances and entertainment from not just the UK, but the whole world. Visitors come from all four corners of the globe to attend this annual event of arts, crafts, music, comedy, literature, theatre, dance, street performance and much, much more! You can even set up your own event if you feel brave enough!  5. Notting Hill Carnival This is the biggest street party in the whole of Europe. Taking place in London over three days and created by members of the British West Indian Community, this inaugural event attracts over a million people! It is a hugely significant event in British culture, celebrating diversity, music and carnival! Be ready to dance! 6. Hay on Wye Festival If literature is your thing, and let’s face it, it should be, then try this celebration of all things written in the village of books! Taking place in the beautiful Brecon Beacons, this ten-day festival invites writers, poets, broadcasters, radio shows and podcasters to share their work.  7. Liverpool Biennial A huge festival of contemporary visual art, and the best that the UK has to offer. Every two years the city opens its doors to a huge range of artists and their work. Projects span the city for the public to see, take a walk to odd locations, see public spaces transformed, unused buildings become a work of art, and Liverpool galleries burst with new exhibitions.  8. Great Exhibition of the North A true showcase for the North of England, artists, designers and businesses all combine forces to show off all that the North has to offer. Based in Newcastle, enjoy a free celebration throughout the whole summer of the Northern spirit and soul of the UK. Expect plenty of unforgettable experiences.  9. Guy Fawkes Night A festival enjoyed the length and breadth of the country, Guy Fawkes Night is open to all. Also known as Bonfires Night and Fireworks Night, it is easy to understand what to expect… local events take place in every village, town and city, so it won’t take you long to work out where to go and join the fun!  So, there we have it, 9 of the most unmissable events in British culture! Let us know if you have any favourites or anything new to add to the list, we would be delighted to hear from you!  IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:              

Medical Defence, via insurance or immunity, can be important for international doctors. As an overseas doctor there are many things to consider when setting up your new life in the UK, one of which is your medical defence and whether to pay for additional cover. In this article we will help explain medical defence, considering the following topics: What is medical defence and do i need it? What indemnity will my trust provide me? Types of medical defence Who can I get medical defence from? IMG Connect's advice What is medical defence and do I need it? Unfortunately, human error is unavoidable and covering yourself against any claim is vital to the continuation of your career as a UK doctor. Appropriate medical defence will provide support for clinical negligence claims made against you whilst working in the UK.  It is a GMC requirement to have adequate or appropriate insurance in place to cover the full scope of your practice in the UK.  What indemnity will my trust provide me? Your NHS Trust will provide you indemnity for the work you are assigned as part of your contract, and you are not legally obliged to take out separate indemnity. However, your NHS Trust indemnity will cover the bare minimum and any extra work you do outside of the specific list of duties in your contract is not covered.  In addition, your Trust indemnity will not cover you for complaints made against you specifically. This includes Trust disciplinary hearings, GMC hearings, criminal investigations, coroner inquests or any private work you undertake. In summary, it is strongly advisable to take out separate indemnity to cover you against all eventualities as a doctor. Types of Medical Defence: There are two types of medical defence:  Indemnity  Insurance Indemnity works on the basis that the claim is covered as long as the cover was in place at the time the incident occurred. Insurance only covers you whilst the policy is in place and/or for a defined period after – called the ‘run off’ period. With the nature of work many doctors prefer indemnity over insurance, as claims can arise years after the event. This rings particularly true in cases involving children where 10+ years can pass before a claim is made. Who can I get Medical Defence from? There are three major Medical Defence Organisations (MDOs) who provide indemnity cover, not insurance. All of them are not-for-profit organisations rather than commercial companies and these are: Medical Protection Society (MPS) Medical Defence Union (MDU) Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) The benefits of membership of the MDOs differ, it is important that you consider each one carefully before making a choice. IMG Connect's advice: Anyone you speak to will strongly advise a doctor working in the UK to take out separate indemnity insurance. This is vital to ensure you are covered at any point you actively practiced as a doctor in the UK.  For avoidance of doubt, consider the significance of the risks for not doing so. We would suggest treating your defence cover as if it were any other utility or provider, and shop around to make sure you get the most comprehensive package at the best value for money. At IMG Connect we are not legal advisors and we want to make clear that we are offering our advice based on conversations with the GMC and any doctors we have worked with. We strongly advise you to seek a professional opinion to form the basis of your decision. IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below: