12 Reasons why the UK is great!
- July 28, 2023
We just love the UK, and so do our IMGs!
It has been great to hear first-hand from overseas doctors the main reasons why they have enjoyed their move and quickly settled into life in the UK. We enjoyed them so much that we have put together some of the best reasons why we think that Great Britain is great!
12. Cities
There are currently a total of 69 cities in the UK, 51 in England, 7 in Scotland, 6 in Wales and 5 in Northern Ireland. Each one has its own diverse history and culture to explore. Cities in the UK are bursting with cultural diversity. They are truly multicultural places to live, work and visit, welcoming people from all over the world and embracing diversity. There are over 300 languages spoken in London alone, it can be said that the capital city of London is the most culturally diverse city in the world. It isn’t just London, cities have their roots in its people who live across its four countries, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Each one has its own traditions and customs to explore and get involved in, everyone is welcome to join the fun!
11. National Parks
The UK’s 15 National parks span the length and breadth of the country and are open to the Public at all times. From deep waters to high peaks, discover the unspoiled landscapes that are open to everyone. Both beautiful and rugged in equal measure, these breath-taking landscapes are truly special places for the whole family to enjoy. An adventure awaits you in the wilds of the mountains, or the ancient woodlands full of intrigue.
10. Weather
Not the most reliable, but the British weather gets everyone obsessed. Everyone loves to talk about it, and why not! Hot sunny days at the beach, rainy days in the city, or rainbows across the landscape, the UK has it all – so join the fun and start talking about it! Just remember to pack an umbrella.
9. Music
For decades British music has taken the world by storm. Blues, rock, folk, metal, ska, punk, rock’n’roll, jazz, classical, electronic, hip hop, pop… there is something for everyone with bustling music scenes up and down the country. Not only can you find British music to follow, but the UK is a hub for diverse musical tastes and cultural difference, with world music accessible with ease.
8. Wildlife
Get closer to nature and get outdoors. With plenty of outdoor attractions, parks and countryside to explore, you are never far away from spotting some of the British countryside’s finest, rarest and most magnificent species. From spotting Golden Eagles soaring high in the mountains, to falcons in the city. Or whale sharks to whales! The UK has a myriad of amazing wildlife to spot! And the good news… nothing is so poisonous it will kill you!
7. History
From ice ages to invasions, British History is diverse with traces left everywhere you look. Centuries of conquerors and migrants have shaped the United Kingdom, and there is plenty to explore. Historical sites, museums, castles and cathedrals will fascinate! Britain wasn’t always called Britain, in fact that was a name made up by the Romans!
6. Festivals
From the annual International Festival and Fringe in Edinburgh, to Glastonbury or the Manchester International Festival, these events come in all shapes and sizes, helping make the UK a hub of creativity and cultural events that attract the biggest names from all over the world. Great fun for the whole family to enjoy, whatever your tastes.
5. Sports
The British sporting calendar is vast. Major events in 2019 will include the Cricket World Cup, Rugby World Cup and the Women’s World Cup in football. But the month by month sporting calendar is packed full of unmissable events. Don’t just watch from the TV, you have to see these in real life!
4. Landmarks
Everywhere you turn, you will see familiar sights, iconic buildings, bridges and streets. Architectural masterpieces like the Tower of London, the palace of Westminster, Buckingham Palace, Stonehenge, the Angel of the North, Tower Bridge, Blackpool Tower… the list is endless and are all amazing landmarks that everyone should visit.
3. Gardens
The Brits take their gardening seriously, and thank goodness, because there are hundreds of wonderful gardens bursting with colour to enjoy. From grand estates like Abney House, to perfected wonders at Kew Gardens, or even the humble village garden, take a stroll and breathe in the intoxicating smell of honeysuckle.
2. Beaches
Yes, that’s right, the beaches! Britain might not be famous for warm weather, but it has miles of unspoiled coastline and many beautiful beaches to explore. In Britain you are never that far away from a beach, even in London!
1. The People
In such a small country, it might surprise some to know that Britain is one of the most diverse, rich and multicultural countries in the world. And we celebrate it at every chance we can get! Our strength lies in our diversity. We look forward to welcoming you with a warm smile!
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Relevant Jobs
This is a unique opportunity to work in a developing initiative that will bring immense social good to the local the people of Wales.
Short / mid / long-term ambitions for this role.
Short-term, there is the opportunity to work a close group of four international doctors, with specialist qualifications in histopathology including FRCPath. You\'ll have the opportunity to shape the careers of hungry pathologists ready to absorb all the knowledge and experience from an experienced NHS colleague like yourself.
Mid-term you\'ll be jointly responsible for the successful portfolio submissions for these individuals, helping the laboratory at Glangwili General Hospital to establish a newly qualified consultant team to provide stability and excellent pathological services for the patients of Wales, UK.
Long-term, the potential is enormous. As part of ‘A Regional Collaborative for Health’ or ARCH a regional hub for South and West Wales is being built in Swansea, to house a 30-35 consultant lead service for histopathology alone. Fully digitalised regional services for half the Welsh landmass would be provided via one central and digitalised hub.
Life in the area
It\'s a beautiful life with Wales offering beaches, beautiful forest, lakes and mountains all available to you in your free-time. It\'s a low cost of living and a a bit of a dream for the right person. We can chat more about that over our call.
The UK Lab is based in Surrey, and the facility is ISO 15189 accredited and ISO 27001 certified.
The department provides the latest technology and several years of extensive research offering highly effective treatment solutions to cancer patients for whom, multiple lines of treatment have failed.
The UK lab receives samples that are received from private practices around the UK, Europe and USA.
Responsibilities:
With roughly two hours of work needed per day, mostly remote, with twice weekly attendance onsite likely required, the pathologists responsibilities will be along the lines of the below.
- Authorisation of reports (molecular and tissue)
- Sectioning slides / assessing tumour content - to help identify which sections can be used for processing samples.
- Approving & signing reports.
- Signing out molecular reports - training will be given.
- Signing out solid organ cancer reports
- Turnaround time is required within 24-hours.
Eligibility:
- GMC registration
- Right to work in the UK
- Ability to travel twice per week to Surrey, UK.
- FRCPath or Specialist Registration is not required for this post
An exceptional NHS job opportunity awaits a Middle Grade Microbiologist to join the Microbiology Pathology Department at an \"outstanding\" rate NHS Trust.The role involves diagnosing and managing infections caused by microorganisms, contributing significantly to patient well-being.
This is an ideal chance for overseas Microbiologists or Middle Grade Doctors to establish themselves in the UK NHS system, with potential CESR support. Suitable for EEA-specialized candidates or experienced IMGs seeking career advancement.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
This NHS Foundation Trust is a dynamic organization with an £180 million turnover, employing 12,000 staff to serve 500,000 people across acute and community healthcare services. Recognized for excellence by the CQC in 2016 and 2019, it primarily serves an urban population but extends its care across a rural expanse from the River Tyne to the River Tweed, offering picturesque landscapes. The Trust operates three major hospitals and numerous community facilities, including the state-of-the-art Specialist Emergency Care Hospital. With ongoing capital investments, it ensures modern, purpose-built facilities and expands its services to meet evolving healthcare needs.
They provide an extensive array of specialties, boasting some of the region\'s largest specialist departments. These include the foremost trauma and orthopaedics service, a significant cardiology department, and one of the region\'s most expansive units for colorectal surgery services.
The NHS Foundation Trust prioritizes supporting its staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance, irrespective of individual circumstances. Applicants unable to work full-time due to personal reasons will still be considered for the position, and adjustments to job responsibilities can be discussed on a case-by-case basis upon appointment.
What is the Department & Team like?
The Clinical Support and Cancer Services Business Unit manages Radiology, Pharmacy, and Pathology departments, as well as cancer services, across several hospitals. These services also extend to six community hospitals. With modern facilities and dedicated staff, the Pathology department, including the microbiology laboratory, benefits from significant capital investment and supports medical education initiatives.
The Microbiology team offers clinical consultation services through various channels such as ward rounds, telephone, email, and multi-disciplinary team meetings. They collaborate closely with Infectious Diseases, Infection Prevention and Control, Public Health teams, and the laboratory. Encouragement for networking with Consultant Microbiologists in the Newcastle area is given to improve patient care across organizational boundaries.
The microbiology laboratory holds a central position within the hospital complex. It comprises 240 m² of laboratory space and 74 m² of office space, established during the hospital\'s original construction in 1987. Specimens from clinical areas within the North East site are transported to the laboratory via a vacuum air tube system, while collections from GP practices and other hospital sites across the region are managed through regular courier and van services.
Life like in North East
The North East of the UK offers a diverse landscape, blending urban hubs like Newcastle and Sunderland with picturesque rural areas. Residents enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, from historic sites like Durham Cathedral to sandy beaches along the Northumberland coast. The region hosts reputable universities such as Newcastle University and Durham University, complemented by excellent schools. Transportation links are robust, with rail and road networks connecting to major cities and airports like Newcastle International Airport. Housing options range from city center apartments to suburban family homes and quaint countryside cottages, catering to varied lifestyles and preferences.
An outstanding opportunity for a psychiatrist to join Forensic Psychiatry Department as Specialty Doctor that has received outstanding ratings from the CQC on three occasions. You will offer psychiatric input and conduct assessments, both psychiatric and physical, for patients on two wards. One ward is a self-contained low secure rehabilitation unit situated away from the main hospital premises, while the other is a medium secure rehabilitation ward. This role offers exposure to a broad spectrum of clinical presentations, including personality, affective, anxiety, psychotic, neurodevelopmental, and substance-related disorders. Moreover, it provides a platform for developing knowledge and understanding of forensic mental health sections. This position also offers CESR support for those seeking progression within the UK NHS Jobs system.
This is a great opportunity for overseas Specialty Doctors who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
What is the NHS Trust like?
The Mental Health NHS Trust is a leading provider of mental health service serving a population of 1.2 million. With five main inpatient sites and 25 community locations, they offer comprehensive support for both mental and physical health needs, catering to young people and adults alike. From managing phobias and anxiety to addressing conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, their services are diverse and inclusive. They integrate community health services with mental health care, enabling simultaneous treatment of conditions such as diabetes and mental health issues, promoting holistic patient care.
Forensic Psychiatry Team & Department
The Forensic Service enjoys a stellar reputation, earning an \'Outstanding\' rating from the Care Quality Commission. The Forensic Service delivers care in low and medium secure environments, featuring specialized facilities such as the National Stalking Clinic and the Fixated Threat Assessment Centre (FTAC). These services focus on evaluating and managing risks for prominent individuals.
The inpatient service consists of one acute assessment and treatment medium secure male 4 4 ward, four treatment and intervention medium secure male wards, one female medium secure ward, one medium secure and one low secure male learning disability ward, one low secure male FICU ward and 4 low secure male wards. There are currently 25 Consultant Forensic Psychiatrists in post, working with 5 senior psychiatric trainees who rotate with posts at other forensic psychiatric services in the region. There are 5 junior psychiatric trainees, coming from the UCH training schemes. The service currently employs 10 specialty doctors, working in the prisons and in the rehabilitation parts of the service.
Life in the area
The area offers a blend of urban and suburban living, providing both rural escapes and city conveniences. Residents can explore scenic parks or enjoy activities at different parks. The area boasts a range of quality schools and easy access to universities like Middlesex University. Transport links are excellent, with frequent trains to central London and nearby cities, as well as efficient connections to major airports. Housing options vary from historic cottages to modern apartments, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles.
Career Development and Opportunities Available
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCPsych
- Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
An excellent opportunity to join the dynamic team at an esteemed organization recognized for its excellence by the CQC. This is an opportune moment to become part of the Acute Medicine and Medicine Specialties Teams. With a strong history of achievements, they are committed to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. They seek a passionate and driven Acute and General Physicians to contribute to their mission of providing top-tier medical care across various clinical settings. This is a high performing and supportive department for overseas doctors new to the NHS, or UK-based doctors looking to further careers in the UK.
This is a great opportunity for overseas Consultants who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their consultant career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
The NHS Foundation Trust stands as one of the nation\'s largest integrated healthcare organizations, delivering both hospital and community services to a populace exceeding 650,000 individuals. Renowned for their ambition and innovation, they boast a skilled workforce comprising over 7,000 dedicated colleagues. Operating across two acute sites for hospital services and encompassing centers and community hospitals in six towns for planned care, they extend their services even to patients\' residences.
Recognized as a high-performing entity with a history of accomplishments, the Trust has functioned as an integrated acute and community services provider since 2011 and achieved foundation trust status in 2007. Guided by their strategic framework \"Our Patients Matter,\" they articulate their short- and long-term objectives and delineate the path to their realization. This framework underscores their commitment to providing the safest, most compassionate, and seamlessly coordinated care to the communities they serve.
Within this NHS Foundation Trust, medical professionals are presented with a plethora of career prospects and exposure to diverse care settings rarely encountered elsewhere. Additionally, they have the opportunity to reside and practice in some of the most culturally rich and picturesque locations across the country!
What is the Department & Team like?
Within the Trust, there are 5 Care Groups: Urgent & Emergency Care, Integrated Medical Specialties, Surgery, Family Health, and Clinical Specialist Services. The Acute Care Team is housed under the Urgent & Emergency Care division. The Acute & General Medicine Department prides itself on delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to patients across a wide spectrum of medical conditions. Staffed by a dedicated team of consultants and junior doctors, the department ensures round-the-clock coverage to meet the needs of their patients. Their department handles a diverse range of cases, including but not limited to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and infectious diseases. With access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities, including advanced imaging technologies and specialist clinics, they are equipped to provide timely and effective care to their patients.
The Acute & General Medicine Department boasts modern and well-equipped facilities, designed to optimize patient care and comfort. They have a 30-bedded Acute Medical Assessment Unit. On average, their department handles a significant number of acute and general medicine cases each year, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in their services by the community they serve. They prioritize patient safety, quality of care, and efficient service delivery, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention and tailored treatment plans to facilitate their recovery and well-being.
The unit is adequately staffed and the working shifts are designed to ensure more doctors are present during the busy period of the day i.e. late evenings. They address the busy winter months by arranging extra locum cover during this busy period. In addition to the acute medicine registrar(s), there is a middle grade doctor, 1 IMT doctor and 4 FY1 doctors with staggered shifts throughout the day. In addition, there will be an on call registrar and 2 on call IMT doctors with staggered shifts. The night team comprises of one registrar, two FY2/IMT and one FY1 supported by an outreach nurse on most nights.
What is life like in the area?
The North East of the UK offers a diverse mix of rural and urban settings, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore stunning coastal areas like Northumberland\'s beaches or venture inland to scenic national parks such as the North Pennines. The region is home to respected schools and universities, including Newcastle University. Transportation links are robust, with efficient road and rail networks connecting residents to major cities like Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, as well as international airports. Housing options range from quaint cottages in picturesque villages to modern apartments in vibrant city centers, catering to various lifestyles.
Career Development & Opportunities Available
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute & General Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience of working in Acute & General Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute & General Medicine