Tackling Brexit in the NHS
- December 30, 2021
Since the UK voted to leave the EU in 2016, the countries exit (now commonly known as Brexit), has raised many questions in the healthcare sector centred on the implications for workforce management and planning.
With some European doctors publicly stating that they either intend to leave the UK, or are uncertain as to the future plans to remain a staff member of the NHS, their decisions pose important questions – are European doctors welcome in the NHS and what is being done to encourage doctors to stay in post?
Speaking with senior NHS figures, it is clear that the contribution of European doctors and healthcare professionals is greatly valued. To add, workforce managers and service leads have advised in no uncertain terms that they do not wish to lose any of their workforce, far from it – services up and down the country are trying to attract more doctors to their services. Brexit they say, is an unfortunate stumbling block at a time when demand is increasing for healthcare. It is therefore a major hurdle that the NHS needs to overcome in order to continue to bring experienced healthcare staff to the UK.
What might not be clear among the bad press surrounding Brexit, is that in 2018, the Government actually relaxed its rules on the immigration of overseas doctors seeking relocation to the UK, considerably increasing the number of Visas made available.
Further evidence of the demand for overseas doctors can be found in the recent White Paper advising the government to add all grades and specialties of medicine to the shortage occupation list. Whilst this is yet to become government policy, the report makes clear the ever-growing demand for European and Non-European doctors.
With ministers agreeing to expand the number of doctors allowed into the UK and changes to the shortage occupation lists in the pipeline, Brexit very much goes against the grain.
So, with a conflicting backdrop of Brexit set against the welcoming approach to European doctors in the NHS, where does recruitment of the best doctors to the UK stand?
Sources tell us that the government is set to continue to encourage doctors to the UK, taking on board proposals to increase the shortage occupation list to all medical doctors, as well as many other areas of healthcare professionals. Good news.
The issue that the NHS faces, is the growing media storm and political posturing around the Brexit debate. This toxic masculinity and surge to the right of centre in British right-wing politics is putting a large number of Europeans off their previously planned immigration. It can also be said that this atmosphere has triggered a small but growing exodus from the NHS.
The government now finds itself in a position where it is trying to explain its response to demand for staff in the NHS and its plans for Brexit, both very different approaches and rhetoric – can it have it both ways?
Focusing on NHS services, Directors, lead consultants and HR managers cannot be clearer – all Europeans doctors will be welcomed with open arms, and all current members of the NHS are highly valued for their continuing contributions. The praise goes further, Royal Colleges from all specialties, the General Medical Council and the British Medical Association have all unequivocally stated that they wish to support their European colleagues.
In addition, these organisations have increased their efforts to attract European candidates in an effort to combat the negative publicity brought about by Brexit. But, Brexit is having an immediate impact on retention, planning and hiring of new staff.
The NHS in England alone was short of nearly 10,000 doctors, with latest figures across the whole of the UK showing further increases in demand. Such figures do not reveal the full picture, with locums filling many posts, the real number of vacancies is likely 25% higher.
NHS operating departments continue to make it clear that staffing is their main problem when trying to combat the rising need for a varied healthcare system. What can be done to combat the negative stem caused by Brexit, and redress the balance in favour of the NHS?
Some attempts have been made in recent years to increase numbers in University as well as attracting junior doctors to the MTI scheme, however such efforts have fallen short.
In fact, the NHS will need to build its reliance on quality overseas doctors to take up fixed term and permanent service posts, an attractive option compared to either expensive temporary staff, or facing the prospect of competing for UK trainees, whose numbers remain very low.
Our hope is that there will be continued drive to employ talented and committed international doctors to help deliver services.
Starting with the local needs of each hospital or Trust in detail to create bespoke searches for the best talent, the best quality staff can be found. And rather than finishing at the point of placement, retention and after care services that ensure overseas doctors settle into their roles quickly, feel valued and integrate in their communities are crucial to successful relocation and retention. Such an approach will offset the negativity mindset and decrease in available candidates brought about by Brexit.
Supporting doctors with practical support & information surrounding their relocation ensures that they can focus on their work. Offering advice on engaging with their communities and new team can bring about a positive mindset. And connecting employers with a wider pool of candidates, most suited to the Trust values and fit, can ensure prolonged partnerships with European and non-European doctors.
All in all, staffing demands caused by Brexit, coupled with the need to increase the skills base in the NHS, can be offset with agencies and HR departments being accountable for the challenges they face. Turning things around in the attraction of workforce supply to the NHS.
What we know so far is that the status of already registered doctors is guaranteed. What is not clear is whether the current arrangements for registration will remain the same, with European Mutual Recognition continuing unaffected.
In all Brexit outcomes, the NHS will need to engage in more international recruitment. Take rural and hard to reach areas, as a good example of where even without Brexit, NHS organisations face challenges to attract greater staffing numbers.
With improved partnerships, focused on overseas recruitment, we can jointly attempt to maintain the number of EEA doctors remaining and joining the medical register.
In summary, the NHS remains an attractive place for overseas doctors to work and train, and the NHS remains committed to supporting all European colleagues and future colleagues. However, the challenge to recruit the best and most committed candidates is growing. Demand is increasing for overseas recruitment; we all must pay our part to maintain the positive impact that employing and supporting Europeans doctors has on our patient care.
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Relevant Jobs
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant in Haematology working in an established medical setting in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
The NHS Trust is one of the largest integrated care providers in England, serving a diverse population with a commitment to high-quality care and continuous improvement. The Trust operates across multiple sites, offering a broad range of services through various care groups, including Surgery, Integrated Medical Specialties, Family Health, Community, and Clinical Specialist Services. It provides a dynamic environment that supports innovation, education, and collaboration.
The Haematology Department & Team
The Haematology Department is a forward-thinking unit, staffed by a dedicated team of Consultant Haematologists and Clinical Nurse Specialists. The department focuses on outpatient and day case treatments, with a collaborative approach to inpatient care. It utilizes advanced facilities for a wide range of haematological services and participates in regional MDTs. This new consultant post will primarily be based at one of the main hospital sites but may involve activities across other locations within the Trust.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within haematology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust supports continuous professional development and encourages participation in research and teaching activities. There is a strong emphasis on education with regular clinical meetings, audit sessions, and opportunities for career advancement.
Location
The location is ideal for international doctors and their families, offering affordable living costs, good schools, and a rich cultural heritage. There are numerous recreational activities, from exploring beautiful countryside and national parks to enjoying vibrant community events and historical sites. The area has excellent transport links, including easy access to major cities and convenient connections to international airports.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Active GMC registration with license to practice
- Experience in Haematology
EEA candidates:
- European Specialist Qualification in Haematology
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP or FRCPath Haematology or PLAB
Consultant Psychiatrist – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
South Wales
A dynamic and transformational CAMHS service in South Wales is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in child and adolescent mental health. The successful candidate will join a well-established multidisciplinary team delivering specialist care across the region, contributing to service development and clinical leadership within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a progressive mental health service with access to regional tier 4 services and a population of approximately 380,000. The post supports the organisation’s strategic vision to integrate CAMHS more closely into community settings while developing clinical pathways in areas including eating disorders, complex care, youth justice, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
We welcome applications for full-time, part-time, or flexible working arrangements and will support CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) development on an individual basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
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Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
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Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.
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Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.
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Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).
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Experience delivering psychiatric care in CAMHS or related services is required.
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A collaborative, developmental, and family-focused approach, with excellent communication and leadership skills, is highly valued.
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Opportunities for career development through CPD, peer supervision, quality improvement, and service leadership.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide consultant-level psychiatric care to children and adolescents as part of a multidisciplinary CAMHS team.
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Lead clinical care planning, review, and treatment delivery in partnership with colleagues across mental health, health, education, and social care.
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Work closely with specialist regional services including adolescent inpatient units, eating disorder outreach services, and forensic CAMHS consultation teams.
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Participate in the CAMHS consultant on-call rota (with prospective cover).
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Contribute to service improvement, pathway development, and integrated working in line with strategic planning goals.
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Provide supervision and clinical leadership to junior medical staff and allied professionals.
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Participate in annual appraisal, job planning, and revalidation, with access to local peer groups and CPD.
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Uphold principles of clinical governance, information governance, and risk management across the CAMHS Directorate.
LIFE IN SOUTH WALES
South Wales offers a rare combination of coastal beauty, green open spaces, and urban convenience. With beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and excellent local amenities, it is an ideal location for professionals and families alike. The region is well-connected by public transport and road networks and offers easy access to nearby cities and airports.
Healthcare professionals in the area benefit from a supportive and inclusive working environment and access to a wide network of services across health, education, and social care.
If you are passionate about delivering outstanding CAMHS care and want to help shape future services in a supportive, innovative setting, we welcome your application. Please note that we may close this post early if sufficient applications are received.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
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CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
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At least two video interview preparation sessions.
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Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
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Document gathering and checking.
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COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
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Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
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Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
Consultant Psychiatrist – Acute Inpatient Service
South of England | Close to London
- Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
- Recruitment premia £15,000 over 3 years *subject to policy requirements
- Relocation allowance: up to £8000 *subject to policy requirements
An inclusive and progressive NHS mental health trust in the South of England is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in acute inpatient care. The successful candidate will join a compassionate and collaborative multidisciplinary team, providing high-quality psychiatric care to adults and clinical leadership across inpatient services. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading NHS Foundation Trust known for integrated working, a strong culture of kindness and respect, and its commitment to clinical excellence and innovation.
Applications are welcome for full-time, part-time, or flexible working patterns. CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) support is available and tailored to individual needs.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
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Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.
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Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.
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Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).
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Clinical experience in managing acute adult mental illness in inpatient settings is required.
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Strong teamworking, communication, and leadership skills are essential.
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Ongoing opportunities for professional development through training, leadership pathways, teaching, and academic engagement.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide Consultant-level psychiatric care to adult inpatients, in line with the Trust’s Acute Operational Policy.
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Deliver clinical leadership and active involvement in quality improvement initiatives.
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Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to a recovery-focused, trauma-informed approach to care.
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Coordinate with specialist and community teams to ensure effective patient transitions and continuity of care.
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Supervise and support junior doctors, specialty trainees, and students.
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Participate in Consultant on-call rota (details available on request).
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Engage in audit, teaching, research, and service development activities.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND
Located in the South of England, this opportunity offers the perfect balance of professional fulfilment and quality of life. The area combines vibrant urban centres, picturesque countryside, and excellent transport links — with London just 30 minutes away by train, and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports nearby for easy international travel.
This region is known for its historic market towns, outstanding schools, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Whether you\'re relocating alone or with family, it offers something for everyone — from city convenience to coastal calm.
The Trust is committed to inclusivity, wellbeing, and the development of its workforce, offering access to flexible working and a wide range of staff benefits.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
-
CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
-
At least two video interview preparation sessions.
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
-
Document gathering and checking.
-
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
-
Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (or equivalent) are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.
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Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.
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Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.
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Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of heritage and modern living.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.
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Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.
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Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.
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Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.
LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND
This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
-
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
-