British social norms – mind your P’s and Q’s!
- November 05, 2021
Moving to a new country means adapting to new ways of doing things.
Before relocating, one of the most important things to know is what the typical cultural and social norms are. As an overseas doctor from another country, you may naturally do things differently. So, this article introduces you to a few things that you need to know about British culture and social norms before you arrive.
The British are punctual, especially doctors!
Being late for work or meetings is considered to be rude. If you’re going to be late to an appointment, contact those involved as soon as you know you will be late. But don’t worry, amongst friends and social gatherings it isn’t considered a problem, British people are late all the time!
Never jump the queue.
In many countries jumping to the front of the queue is normal, but in the UK, people may not be very happy with you and will most likely let you know just how unhappy they are. Expect a ticking off, or a 'tut' to let you know. So, as annoying as queuing is, standing patiently in the queue is normal and expected.
Don’t get too close.
In the UK, it’s normal to keep arm’s length between yourself and the person you are speaking with. As a doctor of course this is standard practice across the world. But in social situations, any closer is assumed to be uncomfortable for those native to the UK. Of course, this does not mean that you can't be friendly!
Be polite - say “please”, “thank you”, and “sorry”.
You will probably get tired of saying these so often, but these are normal parts of everyday conversation and interactions. As an international doctor, you may not be used to this, but you will get used to it very quickly.
Shake hands, pat on the back or kiss on the cheek?
This one can get confusing. At work, a handshake is the only expected and accepted way of greeting colleagues. For obvious reasons. However, amongst friends, British people shake hands, have a brief hug and pat on the shoulder, or give a ‘peck on the cheek’ (kiss) when greeting a friend or family member. It isn’t that simple though, if you are not a close friend or family member, then the physical touch can sometimes be considered unusual or uncomfortable, shaking hands is best in this situation. So, when greeting people, you will have to judge for yourself the most appropriate way to go about it.
Give up your seat.
Like most corners of the world, the Brits show respect for older adults, pregnant women or disabled people. For example, if you are travelling, you are expected to give up your seat if someone who is pregnant, disabled or older, gets on board and there is no other seat. If an older adult or someone who is disabled seems to be struggling with something, you are also expected to approach them and offer your help.
Note, the same can be said for people who are visibly distressed, have fallen unwell, are lost or could benefit from some assistance.
These social norms will help you get along with your new friends and colleagues whilst you settle into your new life in the UK.
Get in touch
We are of course always here to help you to understand what to expect and once you have started in your new job, we can offer support on any situations that arise which may require some friendly advice. Get in touch here.
Relevant Jobs
A NHS Trust in the South East of England is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Medical Oncology with an interest in Breast. The Oncology department includes a team of consultants and is supported by a large group of specialty doctors and clinical fellows. This Medical Oncology role is open to both UK-based and international applicants, with those holding FRCR/MRCP especially encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formerly known as CESR) can have their needs reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Doctors with FRCR/MRCP and an interest in breast cancer are encouraged to apply. The salary will range from £96,990 – £107,155.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Deliver high-quality oncology care, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.
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Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and provide leadership for tumour site specialisations.
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Supervise and mentor junior medical staff, contributing to teaching and research activities.
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Engage in clinical governance and audit work to maintain high standards of care.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST OF ENGLAND
This region offers a balance of busy towns and peaceful countryside. There are excellent schools, reliable transport links to London and Europe, and a wide range of leisure activities — including historic sites, coastal attractions, and cultural events. The area combines accessibility with quality of life, making it attractive for professionals and families alike.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying through IMG Connect, you’ll receive full support from a specialist recruitment team who will guide you through every step. Support includes:
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CV preparation and tailored feedback sessions.
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Application support with in-depth NHS and recruitment insights.
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At least two video-based interview preparation sessions.
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Help with contract discussions and offer negotiations, including relocation packages.
Once you’ve accepted your offer, you’ll have access to a dedicated relocation executive to assist with:
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Document collection and checks.
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COS and visa support where needed.
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Short- and long-term accommodation options.
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Travel planning.
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Family support, including help finding schools and settling in.
A large NHS Trust in the Midlands is looking for a Consultant Interventional Radiologist with an interest in complex vascular and non-vascular procedures. The Radiology department comprises a team of experienced consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Interventional Radiology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCR qualifications 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
FRCR or equivalent and extensive experience in interventional radiology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in complex vascular and non-vascular procedures should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882 dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Lead a comprehensive range of interventional radiology procedures under consultant supervision.
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Assist in the general radiology workload including the Interventional on-call rota.
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Lead teaching and supporting junior radiological staff and radiographers.
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Lead departmental audit and research activities, with the opportunity to pursue formal research.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This role is based in the West Midlands, offering access to urban living in cities like Birmingham and more peaceful rural areas such as Solihull and Warwickshire. The region is known for its excellent schools, strong transport links, and a wide variety of leisure activities for individuals and families alike. With a rich industrial heritage, the West Midlands remains one of the UK’s most historically significant and economically vibrant regions.
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 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:
-
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.
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.