7 Important Communities & Groups for an IMG

  • November 28, 2023
 

Communities are a wonderful thing and feeling part of a community is vital to any doctor and their family looking to make a new home for themselves in the UK. 

In this article we will look at seven of the communities that exist in both professional and social circle, which can help you to be happy in your new NHS job and UK home.

Study preparations groups

Whether it's preparing for PLAB, Royal College or IELTS exams, having friends or colleagues to revise with and push each other is incredibly important.

You can find WhatsApp groups for the specific exams on our IMG Community Facebook page and we highly recommend joining a study group if you have not already.

Any friends and family in the UK

Make the most of any contacts you already have. Make sure to get in touch with any friends or relations let them know your relocation plans. They may give you some trusted hints and tips for the area you are moving to, or just make sure you are looked after from the moment you touch down. 

Either way, building friend and family circles around you is very important.

Facebook groups and the IMG Community

There are many Facebook groups out there geared towards helping doctors like yourself trying to work as a doctor in the UK. 

With that in mind, IMG Connect runs a vetted Facebook community that covers all the topics that you might need help or support on. This includes exam support, registration guidance, first-hand advice and knowledge on hospitals and their departments, relocation support, schooling etc. This list goes on and on! 

Whatever question or help you might need, you can ask us in private or publicly to the community page, you will usually have a response in minutes. 

By joining the IMG Community Facebook group you will be immediately in touch with thousands of people in very similar scenarios to yourself.

Colleagues and peers in your department

The relationships you hold with the people at work are hugely important; you will spend roughly 60-70% of your day working with them after all!

Make sure to involve yourself with your department, the hospital as a whole and become part of the trust’s wider community. 

Understanding with their values whilst engaging socially with your colleagues will go a long way to ensuring you are happy and content in your day-to-day job and make you a much better NHS doctor.

GMC workshops and events

As the GMC knows, adapting to a new healthcare system is hard for any doctor, regardless of experience.

The GMC’s free Welcome to UK Practice workshop is designed to help doctors new to the NHS. By offering guidance on GMC and UK medical ethics, it aims to give you the confidence and assurance to make the right choices in difficult ethical scenarios. 

These are of course great ways to connect with doctors in similar situations to your own, allowing you to make new friends & contacts with other doctors new to the NHS like yourself.

Royal College courses, workshops and events

As with the GMC, Royal Colleges in the UK run a wide variety of professional and cultural events that are often free to attend. 

Take them up on opportunities to further your learning or meet interesting and influential people in your specialty! Whether it’s an art exhibition hosted by your Royal College or an amazing talk by a field specialist, being a member and part of Royal College community is a valuable thing.

The local community you move to

Anyone and everyone can get involved in your community. It doesn’t matter who you are, how old you are, what you believe in; there will always be something there for you. What you get in return is both priceless and invaluable whatever stage of life you are at: Meeting new people – building new friendships, improving your English, experiencing different cultures, improving relations between different communities in your area, building confidence, self-esteem and giving structure to life in the UK.

Get involved in your local school, charities and parks, or look online for groups, activities and events. 

And if you do it right… helping people whilst having fun!


IMG Jobs 

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Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!  

Get in Touch

Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below: 

                

 

Relevant Jobs

105,504 - 139,882

A UK-based mental health service is seeking a Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist to join their Neurodevelopmental Team. This is a part-time (0.8 FTE), permanent post, offering an exciting opportunity to take on a senior clinical leadership role within a well-established specialist service for children and adolescents with complex neurodevelopmental conditions.

The team operates within a multidisciplinary framework, delivering comprehensive assessments, pharmacological treatment, and evidence-based care for young people. The role is ideal for experienced consultants looking to shape service delivery while maintaining strong clinical involvement.

This opportunity is also open to international applicants, particularly those eligible for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register and who will be applying via CESR.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Job Title: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist – Neurodevelopmental Team

  • Contract: 8 Programmed Activities (PAs) per week – Part-Time

  • Contract Type: Permanent
  • Salary: £105,000 – £139,000 (pro rata, dependent on experience)

Applicants must have:

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
  • GMC Specialist Register in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Section 12(2) MHA approval, or a willingness to complete this upon appointment
  • Experience working in child, adolescent, or neurodevelopmental psychiatric services
  • Strong leadership, multidisciplinary collaboration, and communication skills
  • The ability to travel independently across service sites, including schools and service users\' homes

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Lead on psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment planning for young people with complex and/or high-risk neurodevelopmental presentations.

  • Provide consultation and guidance to the multidisciplinary team, as well as external agencies including paediatrics, schools, Tier 4 providers, and primary care.
  • Maintain clinical oversight for young people under the care of the team, participating in emergency assessments and the consultant out-of-hours rota.
  • Attend and contribute to weekly multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical formulations.
  • Collaborate with carers, families, and professionals to co-create effective, evidence-based care plans.
  • Support transitions from child to adult mental health services in line with protocol.
  • Fulfil duties under the Mental Health Act, including conducting assessments and contributing to reports and tribunals as required.
  • Maintain clear and timely medical documentation and support audit and quality improvement initiatives.

MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide senior clinical leadership in partnership with the non-medical Clinical Team Lead.

  • Contribute to the development of service-wide clinical guidelines and care pathways.
  • Support service planning and transformation initiatives based on emerging need.
  • Actively participate in governance activities, clinical audit, and performance monitoring.
  • Engage with stakeholders and external partners at strategic and operational levels.

LIFE IN THE REGION

This role is based in a well-connected and scenic part of the UK, ideal for those who enjoy a balance between urban accessibility and countryside living. With excellent road and rail links, London is just 1 hour by train and car, offering easy commuting and travel.

The area is highly attractive for families, with access to top-rated schools, green open spaces, and a vibrant local community. Whether you\'re seeking historic towns, cultural attractions, or tranquil rural retreats, this region offers something for everyone.
 

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.
105,504- 139,882

An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.

  • The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.

  • Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.

  • Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.

  • Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

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 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

105,504- 139,882
An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in gynae and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone with an interest in gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide systemic therapy services for patients  across UHMB sites.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.

Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural 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
105,504- 139,882

An NHS teaching hospital, in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Melanoma. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Medical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.

  • The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.

  • Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.

  • Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.

  • Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

 The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

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 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

105,504- 139,882

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in upper and lower GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in upper and lower GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide systemic therapy services for patients with upper and lower GI cancers across UHMB sites.

  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for lung and upper GI cancer and support associated administrative duties.

  • Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

  • Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural 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

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