Are you an international medical graduate considering a move to the Island of Jersey?
Nestled between the English Channel and France, Jersey offers a unique blend of British and French cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and a host of activities to enjoy during downtime. Here are the top 5 places you must visit in Jersey.
1. St. Helier: The Vibrant Capital
St. Helier, the capital of Jersey, is a vibrant hub of activity and a great place to start exploring the island. Explore the picturesque marina, shop at quaint village markets, and indulge in some delicious local cuisine, offering the freshest produce, at one of the many independent cafes and restaurants.
- Elizabeth Castle
- Central Market
- Maritime Museum
2. Mont Orgueil Castle: A Medieval Marvel
Perched on the east coast of Jersey, Mont Orgueil Castle offers unmatched views of endless coastline over the harbour of Gorey and the French coast beyond. This medieval castle has been standing for over 800 years and is rich in history. Explore its staircases, hidden rooms, and enjoy the various exhibitions detailing the Castle's storied past.
- Stunning coastal views
- Historical exhibitions
- Interactive displays
3. St. Brelade's Bay: Beachside Bliss (One of Jersey's most popular beaches)
Head to St. Brelade's Bay for some relaxation! Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it the perfect spot for a family day out, a romantic sunset stroll, or some invigorating water sports if you're feeling extra adventurous. The bay also boasts some charming cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy the freshest seafood while basking in the vibes and taking in the views ahead.
- Oyster Box
- Jersey Crab Shack St Brelade
- La Brise
4. La Hougue Bie: A Step Back in Time
Listed among the Top 10 Oldest Buildings in the World, La Hougue Bie is a Neolithic site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Jersey’s ancient past.
- Neolithic burial mound
- Archaeology museum
- Medieval chapel
5. Jersey Zoo: Conservation at its Heart
Founded by the famous naturalist Gerald Durrell, Jersey Zoo is not just any zoo – it's a haven for endangered species and a leader in global conservation efforts. The zoo’s dedication to preserving wildlife makes it an inspiring visit for all ages.
- Gorilla Enclosure
- Orangutan Island
- Reptile and Amphibian House
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're visiting Jersey as part of your move to the UK or simply looking for a delightful getaway, this island offers a wealth of experiences. From its vibrant capital to its serene beaches, and historic landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
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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's salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
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Just arrived in the UK, how do I set up my mobile phone?
There are many things to consider when setting up your new life in the UK, one of which is how to get yourself a mobile phone contract. In this article we’ll help overseas doctors arrange a mobile phone contract by addressing the following questions:
Who are the main providers in the UK?
How can I check for the best coverage in my area?
What do I need to set up a contract?
Can I use my current handset?
What if I plan to be in the UK less than 12 months?
First, some general advice
At IMG Connect we strongly recommend doing some research by using several trusted market-comparison websites and looking at the reviews to help decide on your network provider.
The wrong contract might leave you stuck with a long contract, that proves to be unnecessarily expensive whilst offering poor signal in your area. If you rush this process and take out a contract that is not right, you will regret it. This comes from personal experience, so please do your homework!
Main Providers in the UK
The main providers are:
EE
02
Vodafone
Three Mobile
There are numerous other providers that ‘piggy-back’ off their service, but do not have their own network. The package you can get from a ‘piggy-back’ provider is potentially cheaper than the main provider who’s service they use – however the network quality will always be poorer than the main providers.
How can I check for the best coverage in my area?
Make sure to check the coverage and network availability in your area by using the Ofcom mobile and broadband checker.
Ofcom are the government approved authority for communications and tasked with ensuring people get the best service from their provider. You can raise any issues you have, free of charge, with Ofcom.
What do I need to set up a contract?
Once you’ve decided on your provider and package, most mobile phone companies will only require the following to open a contract:
Two proofs of address (utility bills, rental contracts etc.) which must show both your name and address.
Proof of Identification
Active bank account in order to set up a direct debit
Packages on offer:
There are two types of package you can consider; Contract or Pay-as-you-go
Contract:
Most providers offer a minimum contract of 12 months, SIM only. To get a handset included as part of your contract package typically you need a 24-month contract.
Pay-as-you-go:
Another option to consider is a pay-as-you-go sim card with no contract or handset. This will cost about £10 and can be up and running immediately.
Can I use my current mobile phone handset?
Yes, all sim-only packages will work with the device you already have.
What if I plan to be in the UK less than 12 months?
Whilst most IMGs prefer taking out a contract, if you do plan to be in the UK less than 12 months, a pay-as-you-go contract may be a better option.
In summary:
Only you will know what you are going to use your phone for, and which package will be right for you. If you are someone looking to call overseas regularly, think about WhatsApp calls, VOIP calling packages, face time etc.
With regard to phone contracts, just make sure to get a number of different quotes on similar packages and use these to try and get a bargain for yourself with one particular provider. All networks tend to be flexible at some point and the general rule is, if you don’t ask, you don’t get!
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
IMGs will want to know what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in England.
To help overseas doctors plan for life in the UK we put together some examples to give a better idea of what you'll actually keep each month. We hope they are of use!
How much will I take home?
Firstly, take home pay in the UK is the amount that you will receive in your bank account after all deductions have been made from your annual salary. Deductions include Income Tax, National Insurance and NHS pensions.
It is important to state that this is just a guideline. We have based our figures on the gross salary for each pay threshold and have assumed that you do not have other sources of income.
The figures can be higher or lower depending on any additional responsibilities or hours worked, other sources of income you have, your final tax bracket, whether you opt out of pension, and whether you claim for your tax-deductible expenses.
Take-Home Pay Expectations in England
This is the new 23/24 salary and take-home pay structure following the agreed recent deal.
The pay elements of the new agreement will be applied in the coming months and backdated to 1 March 2024.
Threshold
Annual gross salary*
Estimated annual take-home pay**
Estimated monthly take-home pay**
1
£99,532
£68,286
£5,691
2
£99,532
£68,286
£5,691
3
£99,532
£68,286
£5,691
4
£105,390
£70,606
£5,884
5
£108,390
£71,746
£5,979
6
£118,884
£75,733
£6,311
7
£131,964
£81,727
£6,811
8
£131,964
£81,727
£6,811
*Before tax and pension
**Based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions
To explore the pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK take a look at our series of blogs on career structure and pay for NHS doctors in our IMG Resources library.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor's salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on NHS Jobs, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
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
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
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:
IMGs will want to know what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in Wales.
To help overseas doctors plan for life in the UK we put together some examples to give a better idea of what you'll actually keep each month. We hope they are of use!
How much will I take home?
Firstly, take home pay in the UK is the amount that you will receive in your bank account after all deductions have been made from your annual salary. Deductions include Income Tax, National Insurance and NHS pensions.
It is important to state that this is just a guideline. We have based our figures on the gross salary for each pay threshold and have assumed that you do not have other sources of income.
The figures can be higher or lower depending on any additional responsibilities or hours worked, other sources of income you have, your final tax bracket, whether you opt out of pension, and whether you claim for your tax-deductible expenses.
Take-Home Pay Expectations in Wales
Threshold
Annual gross salary*
Estimated annual take-home pay**
Estimated monthly take-home pay**
1
£87,354
£59,715
£4,967
2
£90,137
£61,329
£5,111
3
£94,789
£64,027
£5,336
4
£100,191
£67,122
£5,594
5
£106,363
£69,468
£5,789
6
£109,882
£70,805
£5,900
7
£113,408
£72,145
£6,012
*before tax and pension
**based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions
To explore the pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK take a look at our series of blogs on career structure and pay for NHS doctors in our IMG Resources library.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on NHS Jobs, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
IMGs will want to know what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in Northern Ireland.
To help overseas doctors plan for life in the UK we put together some examples to give a better idea of what you'll actually keep each month. We hope they are of use!
How much will I take home?
Firstly, take home pay in the UK is the amount that you will receive in your bank account after all deductions have been made from your annual salary. Deductions include Income Tax, National Insurance and NHS pensions.
It is important to state that this is just a guideline. We have based our figures on the gross salary for each pay threshold and have assumed that you do not have other sources of income.
The figures can be higher or lower depending on any additional responsibilities or hours worked, other sources of income you have, your final tax bracket, whether you opt out of pension, and whether you claim for your tax-deductible expenses.
Take-Home Pay Expectations in Northern Ireland
Threshold
Annual gross salary*
Estimated annual take-home pay**
Estimated monthly take-home pay**
1
£88,799
£60,533
£5,046
2
£91,581
£62,166
£5,181
3
£94,362
£63,779
£5,315
4
£97,141
£65,391
£5,449
5
£99,913
£66,999
£5,583
6
£106,520
£69,527
£5,794
7
£113,124
£72,037
£6,003
8
£119,723
£74,544
£6,212
*before tax and pension
**based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions
To explore the pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK take a look at our series of blogs on career structure and pay for NHS doctors in our IMG Resources library.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on NHS Jobs, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Completing your exams and registrations is one thing, moving to another country is another...
All in all, IMGs aspiring to work in the NHS have an awful lot to get done. We know this and is why we exist as a company - to guide and support international doctors on their journey to becoming a doctor in the UK. Here we'll look at 7 mental approaches to making sure your early weeks, months and hopefully years in the UK are sucessful and happy ones!
1. Right mentality
When approaching this new challenge, remember the right mentality is key to enjoying your new life and flourishing in your new job. It is understandable that you might be a touch nervous before moving, but whatever your mindset before leaving home try to embrace the new challenge with enthusiasm and a positive mindset.
2. Build support networks
Having someone’s support is essential and even the most resilient of characters would struggle without it. Support can come from many different places and sources, from your friends or family back home or those you are closest to in the UK.
Online forums and communities, like our IMG Community, can be incredibly helpful when questions or experiences that you have and you can likely get a response in minutes to a problem that has bothered you for a while.
3. Build social and professional networks
At IMG Connect we are big believer in building and utilizing the communities around us, both online and in real life. Ask your peers at work for advice where you need it and think about attending the various professional or social gatherings that you come to be aware of.
It is worth remembering, most people love to share their experiences and offer their advice, whether your peers or new friends you have made in the UK. Use these as opportunities to get to know people around you better.
4. Be socially brave and integrate with your community
Always throw yourself into social scenarios and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to new people. The quicker you settle into your new job and home, the quicker you will be feeling comfortable and happy in your day to day!
5. Be patient
Adjusting to a new system and new country will take time – remember that. It may take a number of months to get things where you want them and up to a year to feel at home in your new scenery. Don’t be afraid of this, just be aware and be patient.
6. Be resilient and remember why you’re doing this
Deciding to relocate to the UK would certainly not have been a decision you took lightly. Remember all the reasons you took the decision to move in the first place, and don’t lost sight of them. Things will invariably get tough at some stage but keep your goals in in throughout.
7. Remember your importance and the good that you do
Finally, remember the amazing things you do every day as a doctor, and what a valuable service you provide to NHS and the British population. You should never forget the importance of your job and positive impact it has on the community around you.
For more useful blogs & articles on relocation, life & culture in the UK & NHS – take a look at our IMG Library.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities 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:
It is a good idea for all international doctors new to working in the UK to attend a workshop, course or training programme aimed at helping doctors understand the ethical challenges faced in UK practice. We advise all IMGs to take part in the GMC workshop - 'Welcome to UK Practice'
In this short article we will explore why, focusing on the GMCs ‘Welcome to UK Practice’ training programme.
The NHS relies on overseas doctors to deliver the highest quality of healthcare, and so are now taking extra steps to ensuring that they are addressing some of the vital aspects of settling into the system that have perhaps been missed in the past, and that other healthcare systems perhaps don’t offer. As such the GMC have considered the following questions:
how to provide a better induction so that doctors can practice safely
how do we help doctors to work to a different set of social norms, such as when dealing with confidentiality and consent
how do we ensure that overseas doctors have a successful first year in the NHS
In doing so they have established the free training programme ‘Welcome to UK Practice’, which is designed to help doctors adjust and adapt to work in the UK, and subsequently the NHS. It addresses the fact that there can be differences in practicing medicine across the world, as well as the time it can take to adjust to a new culture at work. It offers practical workshops and guidance through ethical scenarios, as well as the opportunity to work with and meet other IMGs coming to practice in the UK.
The GMC also offer workshops designed to guide doctors with their practice, covering topics such as confidentiality, raising a concern, use of social media, consent & making joint decisions, and leadership & management.
We recommend attending the ‘Welcome to UK Practice’ course before you start working in the UK
Or the very least just after you start your new post in the NHS. Not only will this give you a boost in terms of how to approach your new role, working with peers, senior colleagues and patients, but it will also give you a chance to discuss your concerns with doctors in similar situations. It is a great forum and platform for a successful first year in the NHS.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
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.
IMGs will want to know what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in Scotland
To help overseas doctors plan for life in the UK we put together some examples to give a better idea of what you'll actually keep each month. We hope they are of use!
How much will I take home?
Firstly, take home pay in the UK is the amount that you will receive in your bank account after all deductions have been made from your annual salary. Deductions include Income Tax, National Insurance and NHS pensions.
It is important to state that this is just a guideline. We have based our figures on the gross salary for each pay threshold and have assumed that you do not have other sources of income.
The figures can be higher or lower depending on any additional responsibilities or hours worked, other sources of income you have, your final tax bracket, whether you opt out of pension, and whether you claim for your tax-deductible expenses.
Take-Home Pay Expectations in Scotland
Threshold
Annual gross salary*
Estimated annual take-home pay**
Estimated monthly take-home pay**
1
£91,474
£59,724
£4,930
2
£93,406
£60,817
£5,019
3
£96,185
£62,389
£5,149
4
£98,967
£63,963
£5,278
5
£101,741
£65,176
£5,377
6
£108,345
£67,559
£5,571
7
£114,949
£69,942
£5,765
8
£121,548
£72,323
£5,959
*before tax and pension
**based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions
To explore the pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK take a look at our series of blogs on career structure and pay for NHS doctors in our IMG Resources library.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on NHS Jobs, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Medical Defence, via insurance or immunity, can be important for international doctors.
As an overseas doctor there are many things to consider when setting up your new life in the UK, one of which is your medical defence and whether to pay for additional cover. In this article we will help explain medical defence, considering the following topics:
What is medical defence and do i need it?
What indemnity will my trust provide me?
Types of medical defence
Who can I get medical defence from?
IMG Connect's advice
What is medical defence and do I need it?
Unfortunately, human error is unavoidable and covering yourself against any claim is vital to the continuation of your career as a UK doctor. Appropriate medical defence will provide support for clinical negligence claims made against you whilst working in the UK.
It is a GMC requirement to have adequate or appropriate insurance in place to cover the full scope of your practice in the UK.
What indemnity will my trust provide me?
Your NHS Trust will provide you indemnity for the work you are assigned as part of your contract, and you are not legally obliged to take out separate indemnity.
However, your NHS Trust indemnity will cover the bare minimum and any extra work you do outside of the specific list of duties in your contract is not covered.
In addition, your Trust indemnity will not cover you for complaints made against you specifically. This includes Trust disciplinary hearings, GMC hearings, criminal investigations, coroner inquests or any private work you undertake.
In summary, it is strongly advisable to take out separate indemnity to cover you against all eventualities as a doctor.
Types of Medical Defence:
There are two types of medical defence:
Indemnity
Insurance
Indemnity works on the basis that the claim is covered as long as the cover was in place at the time the incident occurred.
Insurance only covers you whilst the policy is in place and/or for a defined period after – called the ‘run off’ period.
With the nature of work many doctors prefer indemnity over insurance, as claims can arise years after the event. This rings particularly true in cases involving children where 10+ years can pass before a claim is made.
Who can I get Medical Defence from?
There are three major Medical Defence Organisations (MDOs) who provide indemnity cover, not insurance. All of them are not-for-profit organisations rather than commercial companies and these are:
Medical Protection Society (MPS)
Medical Defence Union (MDU)
Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS)
The benefits of membership of the MDOs differ, it is important that you consider each one carefully before making a choice.
IMG Connect's advice:
Anyone you speak to will strongly advise a doctor working in the UK to take out separate indemnity insurance. This is vital to ensure you are covered at any point you actively practiced as a doctor in the UK. For avoidance of doubt, consider the significance of the risks for not doing so.
We would suggest treating your defence cover as if it were any other utility or provider, and shop around to make sure you get the most comprehensive package at the best value for money.
At IMG Connect we are not legal advisors and we want to make clear that we are offering our advice based on conversations with the GMC and any doctors we have worked with. We strongly advise you to seek a professional opinion to form the basis of your decision.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can 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
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities 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:
Are you an overseas physician looking to move to the UK? Here, you can hear first-hand the experiences of an international general physician who has been through the process, from completing their MRCP and GMC registration, to securing an NHS job and relocating to the UK?
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce you to Rehan Qureshi, a brilliant general medicine specialty doctor who relocated to the UK from Saudi Arabia with his wife, children and his mother in 2020. Having passed the MRCP and English language exams, Rehan received full GMC registration with license to practise. He is now working in the NHS at Scarborough General Hospital in the north of England – where he is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.
Tell us about yourself - what should the IMG community know about Rehan Qureshi?
I'm a physician with a special interest in acute and renal medicine and over 19 years of multi-centre clinical experience. My other areas of interest are clinical research, healthcare quality and patient safety, medical education as well as medical leadership.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
I was practicing overseas where despite working very hard, I had very limited prospects in terms of career progression and growth. I have always admired the NHS’ policy of ‘fair and equal opportunities for all’, and I view the UK in general as a fair and multicultural society.
Tell us about your experience with the Royal College of Physicians exams...
Honestly, these were some very hard times … as a family, it was quite tough for us while I was taking my MRCP exams. Each time I failed, my wife cried … but I didn't because I knew, the only way to get through the process and past failure was resilience! That helped and in the end I passed!
Do you have any tips or advice for overseas doctors who are currently working towards MRCP?
Never lose hope. Set a goal, work hard towards it and keep trying until you succeed! Avoid negativity and people who discourage you. Remember, MRCP is very much doable, though not easy. Practice is the key!
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working?
I divided my day into four parts: work, MRCP, family and rest. I'd ususally finish work by 5pm and immediately begin my MRCP practice from 5pm - 8pm at the hospital. After getting back home at about 8:30pm, I'd have time for dinner and to spentd a couple of hours with family before going to sleep. The weekends were definitely better, but I'd still spend at least 6 hours in the library. I'd suggest you start your intense preparation no sooner than 6 months in advance. You need to work hard, but try to avoid burnout. For me, it worked.
Did you have any major or unexpected issues with the GMC registration process or your visa application?
I had none at all - everything went smoothly.
How did you find a medical oncology job within the NHS?
To be honest, I connected with Marcus & Ruaidhri, who did everything for me. They actually made my journey to getting my first NHS job a piece of cake! This was to the extent that when we arrived in the UK and reached our hotel, (at a time when the UK was in lockdown due to COVID), we had all our groceries promptly delivered by them. What more could anyone ask for? I knew some friends who were working with other agencies that left everything to them. With how much IMG Connect had helped me, I used to ask Ruaidhri questions to help my friends as well.
My advice: find yourself an agency that is known to be responsible and is keen to truly help. I personally found IMG connect very very helpful!
Tell us about your journey to the UK...
It was scary to travel at a time when the UK was in lockdown and COVID-19 cases were so high. However, my journey was made very simple, since all the logistics including visas were sorted by Ruaidhri, so we did not face any unnecessary hassle. I would say, it was a very smooth transition, we enjoyed two weeks of quarantine as we had been longing to spend some quality time together as a family and enjoy a good rest before starting up again.
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
The support I received on this journey was amazing. I absolutely could not ask for more. For the first time in my life, I traveled without any need to think or worry about logistics because they were being so well-managed by Ruaidhri and his team at IMG connect. My wife and I were traveling with young children and my elderly mother, and I must say, we have been taken care of very well!
How are you settling into life in the UK?
We have been settling in very well. In Scarborough, we have a beach that my children enjoy going to, and they also love their new school. Not for a single day have we felt that we are in a country of different culture, ethnicity or faith. My daughter had a pleasant surprise when her school teacher greeted her with 'Eid Mubarak' on the day of Eid festive, which was a great welcome during our first time celebrating Eid in the UK. The UK is truly wonderful and people are very welcoming here. It's beautifully blended multi-cultural society and we consider the UK our home now.
What have you enjoyed most about living in Scarborough in particular?
So many things: the beach, the variety of fun activities for children - like steam engine trains and parks. We've even enjoyed snow for the first time. Fish and chips are great! Traveling in the UK is absolutely easy and fun and there's so much to do and see.
What opportunities have become available to you through your work?
I am really enjoying my current role. Within a year of joining the NHS as a specialty doctor, I now hold 4 different roles: I'm a senior lecturer at Hull York Medical School, an SAS regional representative for RCP London, an SAS Teaching Fellow and a member of the RCPQI. I’m also starting my postgraduate certificate in health professions education funded by the HEE. I have the support of mt Trust with my CESR application and have been given the opportunity for research and to become a medical examiner.
For comparison, I was in my previous position for a decade, and only had one role with no career progression prospects.
What’s next for you now that you’re working in the UK?
I think you should always aim high with your goals. I aim to establish myself as a clinical leader as well as an academic leader, a clinical researcher and principal investigator. In the short term, I look forward to taking on the new 'Specialist' role and making progress on my CESR application with my hospital's support.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
This would be my mother's visa. I'm an only child, so I couldn't relocate without her. Before finding IMG connect, many agencies had contacted me with job opportunities and all refused to help with my mother's visa. IMG Connect on the other hand, never give up. Marcus & Ruaidhri, perhaps, enjoy such challenges :-) Ruaidhri literally went out on a limb to help me on this. He contacted people, introduced me to an agency, helped me prepare the entire case and finally - we got it done and my mother was given her visa! I can't tell you what a huge relief it was. A big thank you to Ruaidhri, Marcus and the entire team at IMG Connect for this!
Have you experienced any culture shocks living in the UK?
Not at all! As I said, the UK is a multicultural, multi-faith country. People here in Yorkshire are very welcoming. We can easily find Halal food from local shops which also sell vegetarian food. We have a mosque in town, and there are separate prayer rooms for both male and female Muslim staff in the hospital. We feel so at home here.
What have you missed about Saudi Arabia the most?
We've definitely missed our old friends, and relatives.
Is there anything you wish you’d known before you began your journey to live and work in the UK?
I already had most of the information I needed before I came by Ruaidhri and Marcus, so there was nothing that came as a shock or surprise to me.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
I have a couple of pieces of advice. Firstly, if you are struggling to progress in your career, consider relocating to the UK. Here, it does not matter who you are, or where you come from. What matters is how dedicated and hardworking you are and I think your hard work always pays off. The NHS is a great institution and wonderful place to work. Secondly, I'd say consider taking an specialty doctor role. It's a great position where you'll have career prospects to develop as a locum consultant and enjoy a good work-life balance.
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their field and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR (for non-EEA doctors), writing publications and research. Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Connect family.
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Are you an overseas psychiatrist looking to move to the UK? Have you always wanted to hear first-hand the experiences of an international psychiatrist who has been through the process, from receiving full GMC registration to securing an NHS job and relocating to the UK?
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce Francesco Spadaro, a brilliant consultant psychiatrist who relocated to the UK from Italy. Francesco has been living and working in the UK after receiving full GMC with specialist registration. He is now working in the NHS at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, where he is making a positive impact on the service and the wider community.
Tell us about yourself - what should the IMG community know about Francesco Spadaro?
My work is my passion. I really love the clinical aspect of it, especially talking with patients. I enjoy trying to help my patients as much as I can and giving them a hope in trying to improve their clinical condition. No matter who they are, where they come from, or how serious is their disorder may be. At the same time, studying and looking at how the mind works has always been such an important part of my life.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
I was very keen to move to the UK. London is such a special place and completely unique in my opinion. The city is so open and inclusive and really encourages you to get involved in so many ways. This was a really big motivating factor for me.
Was Brexit an issue for you at all?
It was definitely something to consider, but I was lucky enough to be able to anticipate my leave at my previous job in order to avoid any potential Brexit complications.
How did you find a general adult psychiatry job within the NHS?
I personally found IMG Connect to be a great help on this. The team really encouraged me with lots of advice and suggestions on how I could tailor my CV to specific roles I was applying to.
Most importantly, they really listened and took into consideration all of my needs and difficulties. They go far beyond any of the simple questions you may have for them and cover all angles, including things you may not have considered yourself!
Tell us about a day in the life of an international General Adult Psychiatrist.
I work in a secondary care, Community Services facility. We work in teams which cover several boroughs and are led by a senior practitioner, ans supported by health professionals with a range of expertise: nurses, social workers, support workers, psychologists and NGO volunteers.
We start each day with an MDT (multi-disciplinary team meeting) where we discuss our first assessments, feedback and cases with cause for concern. The great thing about these meetings is that we're all equally involved - everyone participates, sharing knowledge specific to their experience and role.
Consultants are involved in the most severe cases. They will also have slots where they will supervise trainee GPs and junior doctors. We also have lots of meetings throughout the week: scientific meetings, journal clubs and meetings concerning the organisation. Sometimes it feels like there are too many meetings, but I'm still getting used to the differences between the UK and Italian healthcare systems.
Tell us about your journey to the UK...
It was really quick! Once I'd passed had my interview and been offered the job, I just organised my affairs and hopped on the plane. Of course COVID-19 complicated things, but that was the case for everyone in almost every country at the time.
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
My experience with IMG Connect has been excellent. They carefully listened to my needs and requests and were always able to offer me appropriate jobs along my requests. They also prepared me in coping with any type of difficulties I would face in regard to relocation to London and my new role in the NHS. They were such a solid presence throughout this process for me and were always there to offer support, both before I had the job and afterwards.
Within the IMG Connect team, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ruaihdri MacKay in particular, who is an excellent professional recruitment consultant. He was a wealth of guidance, advice and support for me during, and also after, my entire recruitment and relocation. He showed what I consider a unique commitment, dedication and foresight and completely kept me at ease with his justified optimism and knowlegde of the steps in my journey. I was really lucky to have him on my side.
How are you settling into life in the UK?
Things were a little difficult to begin with due to the COVID-19 restrictions, but things have really eased and I'm enjoying living here.
What’s next for you now that you’re working in the UK?
At the moment I'm still settling in, learning a lot about the UK's system and procedures. Once things have settled a little more for me, I'd like to see whether I can incorporate some teaching or lecturing work into my career path in the UK.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
One of the challenges I've faced has been finding really affordable housing, but this was expected in moving to such a large and popular city as London.
Have you experienced any culture shocks living in the UK?
I wouldn't consider it so much of a cultural shock, instead I'm pleasantly surprised by the opportunity to work with such a diverse range of people. It really is a special experience that connects you to cultures and people all over the world.
What have you missed about Italy the most?
Most of all, I miss the lifelong friends I've made in Italy.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
I would just say, do it. Take a chance and live the experience!
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their field and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR (for non-EEA doctors), writing publications and research. Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Connect family.