Trust Doctor Jobs in the NHS
- June 28, 2022
NHS trust doctor jobs are paid well with numerous posts available across the UK.
Trust doctors are employed by the NHS in service posts, and therefore for training purposes only are not regulated by Royal College or Deanery. They are an attractive way for both the NHS and IMGs to ensure doctors are secured into posts quickly. The work of a trust doctor is often indistinguishable from that of a training post, and can therefore be an attractive option for trusts, paving way for the recruitment of overseas doctors.
In this article will explore the both, with particular focus on service jobs. We will include the following topics:
- What is a trust doctor?
- Could I take a training post instead?
- What are the benefits of a trust doctor job?
- How do I secure a trust doctor job in the NHS?
What is a trust doctor?
Trust doctor jobs in the NHS cover a range of grades and apply to all specialties. It is a term applied to a doctor who is working in the NHS in a non-training post.
Typically, the title trust doctor is applied to a doctor working at Senior House Level (FY1 & 2), however the term has now become synonymous with all grades.
It is now a term most commonly applied to doctors from FY1 to ST3, but can be applied to specialty doctors by some trusts.
Trust doctors work in career posts without specialist recognition, but often doctors doing service level jobs secure an ‘approved post’ and complete specialist training, others continue to progress using their experience as the platform.
Many of the doctors accepting service posts are from overseas, this can be a quick way to enter the NHS system and start your career in the UK.
Could I take a training post instead?
Yes, training posts in the NHS are very attractive. However, competition for places on training posts within the NHS is highly competitive.
As such for IMGs interested in securing a place on a training post in the NHS, we advise that IMGs obtain a trust doctor or SAS doctor post, depending on experience, for 1 – 2 years. Following which you will be able to apply for a training post, for which you will be given priority.
Not only will this approach give you the best chance of securing excellent training and career progression opportunities in the NHS, it will also give you the chance to settle in to the UK, get to know your trust better, and help you understand the training post that will suit you the most.
Trust doctor posts also offer very competitive rates, so whilst you are getting to know the NHS and settling into life in the UK, you can also ensure that you are financially rewarded
What are the benefits of a trust doctor job?
No matter what grade you are working at, there are benefits to a trust doctor role.
Less competition and route to more training
The majority of IMGs are keen to enter training pathways at some point, but competition for these positions is very high. Places are offered to UK based applicants first, then EEA followed by Non-EEA applicants.
As such, it can be difficult to get a training post when applying for your first NHS role.
However, competition for trust doctor roles are not nearly so competitive and can lead to successful applications for training programmes.
Quicker route to securing your first post
For overseas doctors applying for trust doctor posts, as opposed to a training post, the process can be quicker. Less competition and a high demand for doctors will ensure that IMG Connect can secure you interviews quickly.
Financial reward
Trust doctor jobs typically offer competitive salaries, with some harder to fill locations able to offer additional incentives. Speak with your IMG Consultant for more information.
Allowing you time to settle into the UK and NHS
Taking a trust doctor role can be a great way to allow yourself time to settle into your new job and enjoy living in the UK. By taking on a new culture, employer and healthcare system all at once, you may feel more comfortable taking on a service post avoiding all the extra commitment and learning associated with a training role.
More patient focused roles and less responsibility
Trust doctor posts are usually more focused on meeting NHS service requirements compared to trainee roles. Many doctors simply prefer a role where they can spend more time with patients, without the pressured commitment to training, admin and competition associated with training roles. This gives you more time to do the job you love.
Balance between work and personal life
When taking a service post such as a Trust doctor post, additional working hours and on call commitments can be optional. You will also be given the option to increase your overall hours through weekend and shift work, which will increase your overall take home pay. In most circumstances it is up to you how you want to approach balancing a life at home with work commitments & financial rewards.
Freedom to consider all parts of the UK
Entering a training post is not only a commitment to the programme over a number of years, but also the geographical location that the deanery covers. By taking a trust doctor service role instead, you could complete a one-year contract and relocate to a different part of the UK altogether after completing the contract.
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How do I secure a trust doctor job in the NHS?
There are many reasons why a trust doctor job can be a great option for IMGs when considering their first NHS post and it is clear that service doctors are vital to the day to day running of the NHS.
Of course, many doctors will be keen to get straight onto the specialty training programme, with a clear vision of achieving consultant status. The NHS training programme is recognised the world over for its quality and innovation and as such places are at a premium.
Regardless of the route you wish to take, IMG Connect will support any doctor pursing either path and can offer guidance and advice throughout either process.
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Relevant Jobs
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.
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Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
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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.
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
-
An NHS district general hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in skin cancer and minor skin surgery. The Dermatology department comprises a team of locum consultants, an experienced Specialty Doctor, and a Biologic Nurse Consultant, supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) or SCE 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
Full GMC registration and significant experience in general dermatology and minor surgery, are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in skin cancer management and dermatological surgery should apply. The salary will be between £109,725 and £145,478 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver high-quality general dermatology services, including urgent and routine outpatient clinics.
- Participate in subspecialty clinics, particularly for skin cancer diagnosis, management, and surgery.
- Contribute to departmental management, teaching, and supervision of junior doctors and medical students.
- Support service development and clinical governance through audit, guideline development, and education initiatives.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
???????This hospital is situated in the north of England, with popular residential areas including vibrant cities and picturesque countryside locations. Urban dwellers may enjoy city life in places like Sheffield or Leeds, while rural enthusiasts might prefer the surrounding villages and national parks. The region offers great schools, excellent transport connections, and a wide variety of leisure activities for all lifestyles. Historically significant for its industrial roots, the area remains a vital and evolving part of British 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