I'm an overseas doctor planning to relocate to the UK. Can I drive immediately? Good question! This is a common query raised by IMGs planning their relocation to the UK. In this article we’ll help you understand the process of driving in the UK with a foreign license and, if necessary, to arrange your UK driver’s licence by addressing the following questions:  Is my driver’s licence valid? What is the difference for EU and non-EU driver’s licence holders? Exchanging your licence Is my driver’s licence valid? Regardless of where you're relocating from, if you hold a foreign driver’s licence, you can drive in the UK immediately. However, the duration and conditions under which you can continue driving depend on whether your licence is from an EU (or a designated country) or a non-EU country. You can check here to confirm your licence status.  What is the difference for EU and non-EU driver’s licence holders? For an EU licence holder: If you hold an EU or European Economic Area (EEA) driver’s licence, you can drive in the UK until the age of 70 or for up to 3 years after becoming a UK resident, whichever is longer. After this period, you must exchange your licence for a UK one, rather than retake the test. For non-EU licence holders: If you hold a foreign driver’s licence and are now a resident in the UK, you can drive for a period of 12-months with your current licence. To continue driving beyond this period, you must obtain a UK driving licence by passing both the theory and practical driving tests within the 12 months. Exchanging your licence: You can exchange your foreign driver’s licence for a GB licence if it is from: EU/EEA countries (no time limit for exchange) Northern Ireland (no time limit for exchange) Jersey, Guernsey or Isle of Man (must be exchanged before 12 months) A designated country* (must be exchanged before 12 months) * Andorra, Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland and Zimbabwe You can check whether you can exchange your licence here.  How do I exchange my licence? To exchange your licence, you will need to get a D1 form which you can obtain from any Post Office that handles DVLA transactions or you can apply online through the DVLA website. When filling out the form you'll need to provide: Your current driver’s licence Proof of your identity (e.g. passport or residency card) A passport-sized photo A fee of £43, payable by cheque or postal order The process usually takes about 3 weeks, and your new UK licence will be sent to you via post. 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.

NHS Consultant Salary: Monthly Take-Home Pay for International Doctors in Scotland For international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in NHS jobs in Scotland, understanding what an NHS consultant salary translates to in monthly take-home pay is essential for financial planning. To assist overseas doctors in preparing for life in the UK, we’ve provided examples to give you a clearer idea of your potential monthly earnings. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, your take-home pay is the amount you receive in your bank account after all mandatory deductions from your annual salary. These deductions include: Income Tax National Insurance contributions NHS pension payments Our figures serve as a general guideline. They are based on the gross salary for each pay scale and assume no additional sources of income. However, your actual take-home pay can vary based on: Additional responsibilities or extra hours worked Other income sources Your final tax bracket Decisions regarding NHS pension contributions Claims for tax-deductible expenses Take-Home Pay Expectations in Scotland For NHS consultants in Scotland, the monthly take-home pay will depend on these factors. Use our examples as a starting point, but remember that actual earnings can differ. To get the most accurate information for your specific situation, consult with an IMG specialist or financial advisor. Understanding how NHS consultant salaries translate into monthly take-home pay will help you effectively plan your finances and ensure a smooth transition to your new role in Scotland. Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £96,963 £5,300 £5,300 2 £99,011 £64,687 £5,391 3 £101,957 £65,808 £5,484 4 £104,906 £66,707 £5,559 5 £107,846 £67,604 £5,634 6 £114,846 £69,739 £5,812 7 £121,846 £71,874 £5,990 8 £128,841 £74,729 £6,227 *before tax and pension **based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions To explore detailed information on NHS pay scales and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, check out our comprehensive series of blogs on career structure and NHS doctor pay in our IMG Resources library. These resources are designed to help international doctors understand their earning potential at various stages of their careers in the NHS.

Are you an international doctor considering a move to the UK and curious about NHS pay in Wales? Understanding what an NHS consultant salary means in terms of monthly take-home pay is crucial for your financial planning. To help overseas doctors like you prepare for life in the UK, we've put together practical examples to illustrate what you can realistically expect to keep each month in Wales. These insights aim to make your transition smoother and more informed. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, your take-home pay is the amount that reaches your bank account after mandatory deductions, such as Income Tax, National Insurance, and NHS pension contributions, have been made from your annual salary. Please note that these figures are intended as a guideline. We've based them on gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no other sources of income. Your actual take-home pay may vary depending on factors like additional responsibilities, extra hours worked, other income sources, your tax bracket, pension choices, and any tax-deductible expenses you claim. By providing these examples, we aim to support your journey towards a fulfilling career in the NHS and a well-prepared life in Wales. Take-Home Pay Expectations in Wales Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £100,000 £68,557 £5,713 2 £105,000 £70,457 £5,871 3 £110,000 £72,357 £6,030 4 £115,000 £74,257 £6,188 5 £123,000 £77,297 £6,441 6 £130,000 £80,686 £6,724 7 £138,000 £84,926 £7,077 8 £146,000 £89,166 £7,431   *based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions To explore doctor pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, including NHS pay in Wales, check out our series of blogs on career structure and NHS salaries in our IMG Resources library.

Are you a Doctor considering a career move to Jersey? Understanding doctor pay in Jersey is crucial when planning the next step in your career.  Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, not only offers a stunning living environment but also provides highly competitive salaries for medical professionals. As our team at IMG Connect partners with Jersey Health and Community Services, placing doctors into their excellent services, we thought we'd put together a short guide to delve into Jersey doctor pay by grade, helping you make an informed decision about your future career.   Foundation Doctors (FY1 & FY2) Pay in Jersey For newly qualified doctors, starting in Jersey offers an appealing financial incentive. The salary for a Foundation Year 1 (FY1) doctor begins at approximately £32,398 per year—higher than the equivalent in the UK. Moving into Foundation Year 2 (FY2), the pay increases to around £37,303 annually. These figures reflect base salaries, but additional earnings can be accrued through compensation for unsocial hours, night shifts, and weekend work. This makes Jersey an excellent starting point for medical professionals beginning their careers.   Specialty Training (ST1 – ST3) Pay in Jersey Jersey doctor pay becomes even more attractive as you move into Specialty Training (ST1 to ST3). Salaries for Specialty Trainees in Jersey range between £43,923 and £55,329 per year. The exact salary depends on your level of training and experience. Just like in the UK, these figures can be increased with enhancements for extra hours, night shifts, and weekend duties, making doctor pay in Jersey highly rewarding for those in specialty training.   Associate Specialist Pay in Jersey For doctors who are looking to step up without taking on a full consultant role, the Associate Specialist position in Jersey offers lucrative opportunities. Jersey doctor pay for Associate Specialists ranges from £83,519 to £126,025 annually. This pay scale is higher than that of the UK, reflecting the island’s higher cost of living and the demand for skilled medical professionals. The role also includes potential earnings through additional responsibilities, further enhancing doctor pay in Jersey.   Consultant Pay in Jersey Consultant roles in Jersey are particularly well-compensated, with annual salaries ranging from £110,257.50 to £164,372.63. Beyond this base pay, consultants have the opportunity to earn more through additional responsibilities, such as management roles or educational duties. Jersey also offers Clinical Excellence Awards to recognise and reward outstanding performance, further enhancing the potential earnings for consultants on the island.   Tax Benefits of Working in Jersey These include a base 20% tax rate, generous pension schemes, comprehensive healthcare coverage, and ample opportunities for professional development. Jersey’s healthcare system is known for its supportive environment, which fosters both personal and professional growth, making Jersey doctor pay and lifestyle a compelling combination.   Why Choose Jersey for Your Medical Career? Choosing Jersey means opting for more than just competitive salaries. Jersey doctor pay is complemented by the island's beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and a tight-knit community. If you’re looking for a career that offers both financial reward and a high quality of life, Jersey could be the perfect destination for your next professional chapter. Conclusion: Jersey Doctor Pay – Competitive and Rewarding Doctor pay in Jersey is highly competitive across all levels, from Foundation Doctors to Consultants. With salaries that often surpass those in the UK and a range of additional benefits, Jersey offers a unique opportunity for medical professionals. Whether you are just starting or are an experienced doctor, Jersey doctor pay combined with the island's exceptional living conditions makes it an ideal location for advancing your medical career. If you want to read more about the top places to visit on the Island of Jersey click here to read this blog!   For more information on Jersey doctor pay and job opportunities, don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in Jersey. To view the full Government of Jersey - Doctors and Medical Consultants click here!

As we continue on our journey through UK Life & Culture we land on one of IMG Connects favorite topics of all – Sport! Britain most definitely is a sporting nation and with events running throughout the whole year there are so many amazing events for IMGs to enjoy once living in the UK – no matter where you live.  So what are our 6 must-see British Sporting events? Let’s find out….. The British invented many of the sports we find popular in the world today including football, rugby, cricket, golf, badminton, field hockey, tennis, table tennis, snooker, curling and darts to name just a few!  Football - English & Scottish Premier Leagues When: August to May Where: Throughout the UK Like the rest of the world, football is huge in the UK, and with more big teams than ever challenging for the championship, it’s a hugely exciting time to watch British football. Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham represent the biggest clubs in England. However, with recent successes from teams like Newcastle United and Brighton, the competition is fiercer than ever. In Scotland, the passion for football is just as intense. The 2023-24 season sees Celtic and Rangers, two of the biggest clubs in Britain, battling it out once more for the Scottish title. Did you know? The 2022-23 English Premier League season saw Arsenal mount a strong challenge for the title, ultimately finishing second. Bukayo Saka, one of their star players, became the first English player under the age of 22 to score 10+ goals and provide 10+ assists in a single Premier League season, showcasing the incredible young talent in the league. Cricket & The Ashes When: Throughout the summer Where: Throughout the UK Cricket, a quintessentially English sport, is beloved worldwide, especially in countries like India, Pakistan, Australia, and Sri Lanka. Whether it’s T20, one-day internationals, or a full Test match, there are countless great cricket matches to attend in the UK. Each offers a fantastic day out with friends or family. 2023 was a memorable year for cricket, with England reclaiming the Ashes on home soil. The summer of 2024 will feature thrilling Test series and T20 matches, continuing the legacy of exciting cricket. Did you know? The term 'Ashes' was first used after England lost to Australia, for the first time on home soil, at The Oval on 29th August 1882. A day later, the Sporting Times carried a mock obituary of English cricket which concluded that: "The body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia". Tennis & Wimbledon When: July Where: London Wimbledon is famous worldwide for its prestigious grass-court Grand Slam event, held in southwest London. The tournament has produced some of the greatest matches and rivalries in tennis history, from McEnroe vs. Borg to Federer vs. Nadal. Getting tickets for Centre Court can be challenging, but soaking in the atmosphere on Murray Mound (formerly Henman Hill) is an experience in itself. Did you know? As of 2024, Novak Djokovic has equaled Roger Federer's record with eight Wimbledon titles, and Iga Świątek is emerging as a new dominant force in women’s tennis. Snooker & World Snooker Championship When: April to May Where: Crucible Theatre, Sheffield The World Snooker Championship is the pinnacle of snooker, held annually at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. It’s a must-see for any snooker fan, offering two weeks of intense and thrilling competition. Did you know? The 2023 World Championship saw Luca Brecel become the first player from continental Europe to win the title, marking a new era in snooker. Athletics & London Marathon When: April Where: London Whether running or spectating, the London Marathon is a spectacular event. Starting in Blackheath and finishing in The Mall near St James’s Park, the course covers 42 kilometers and passes many iconic London landmarks. The 2024 marathon promises to be another record-breaking event, with thousands of runners raising millions for charity. It’s a fantastic day out for the family, even if you’re not running. Did you know? In 2023, over £70 million was raised for charity, setting a new global record for a single event. Six Nations Rugby When: February to March Where: Various locations across the UK, Ireland, France, and Italy Rugby is a thrilling sport, and the Six Nations Championship is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar. The tournament features England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy in a fierce battle for supremacy. Rugby is a spectacle to watch live, with its fast-paced, hard-hitting action. The tournament also boasts a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great day out for families. Did you know? Ireland won the 2023 Six Nations Grand Slam, continuing their strong form as they head into 2024 as one of the favorites. So, there we have it—just a small selection of the diverse sports that make up our British sporting cultural landscape. P.S. Any hockey or golf fans, sorry I missed you out! 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:              

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.   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's 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:                    

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.

Are you an international doctor considering a career in the NHS? Understanding what your NHS consultant salary will look like as monthly take-home pay is crucial for planning your new life in the UK. To help you navigate this important aspect, we've compiled detailed examples that break down what you can realistically expect to take home each month. These examples will provide you with a clearer picture of your financial situation, allowing you to plan effectively for your future job working as a consultant doctor working in the NHS England. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, your take-home pay is the amount deposited into your bank account after all mandatory deductions are subtracted from your annual salary. These deductions typically include Income Tax, National Insurance contributions, and NHS pension payments. It's important to understand that our calculations are intended as a general guide. We've based our estimates on the gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no additional income streams. Your actual take-home pay may differ due to various factors, such as additional responsibilities, extra hours worked, supplementary income, your final tax bracket, pension decisions, and any tax-deductible expenses you may claim. By offering these insights, we aim to help you better navigate your financial planning as you embark on a rewarding career in the NHS and build a new life in the UK. 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 £105,504 £70,649 £5,887 2 £111,714 £73,009 £6,084 3 £114,894  £74,217 £6,185 4 £126,018  £78,576 £6,548 5 £139,882  £85,924 £7,160 *Before tax and pension **Based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions For a comprehensive overview of pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, explore our blogs series on NHS career structure and pay. Visit our IMG Resources library to find detailed information tailored to international doctors. 

Navigating the financial landscape as an NHS employee, understanding various aspects, from pension contributions to childcare costs and general living expenses. In this blog, we'll break down essential information to help you manage your finances effectively. Pension Contributions: As an NHS employee, you contribute 13.5% of your income to the NHS Pension Scheme, with the NHS topping this up by 20.6%. These contributions are tax-free, reducing your taxable income. You can access a portion of your pension pot at the age of 55, with the remainder available upon retirement. Childcare Costs: Childcare options such as after-school clubs are available at most UK schools, typically running from 3:00 pm to 6:15 pm. Costs range from £10 to £20 per day on average, and you can utilize the tax-free childcare scheme to save up to 20% (up to £2,000 annually) on these expenses. Budgeting around £2,000 to £3,000 per year for part-time childcare is advisable. Rents and Bills: The cost of living in the UK, including rents and bills, varies by location. For instance, in areas like Bournemouth and Poole, rent for a 2-bed flat or terraced house near the hospital might range from £1,200 to £1,400 per month. Additional monthly expenses, including council tax, utilities, and internet, can total around £1,750 to £1,800. General Costs: Budgeting for phone contracts, groceries, and transportation is essential. Phone contracts typically range from £10 to £20 per month, while groceries may cost around £350 to £400 monthly for a healthy balanced diet. Transportation expenses, including car ownership costs and fuel, should also be considered. Navigating Financial Decisions: Opting out of the NHS Pension Scheme to increase take-home pay may seem tempting, but it's generally not advisable. Earning above £100,000 annually can result in losing tax-free allowances and government childcare benefits. Pensions become increasingly valuable in managing taxable income, particularly for senior doctors and consultants. Conclusion: Managing finances as an NHS employee requires careful planning and consideration of various expenses, including pension contributions, childcare costs, rent, bills, and general living expenses. By understanding these financial aspects, you can make informed decisions to ensure financial stability and well-being throughout your career.   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's 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:                    

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:                  

NHS Consultant Salary: Take-Home Pay for International Doctors in Northern Ireland For international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in working in the NHS, understanding what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in Northern Ireland is crucial for financial planning. To help overseas doctors prepare for life in the UK, we’ve compiled examples to give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to take home each month. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, take-home pay refers to the amount deposited into your bank account after all necessary deductions have been made from your annual salary. These deductions typically include: Income Tax National Insurance contributions NHS pension payments It's important to note that these figures serve as guidelines. We’ve calculated them based on the gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no other sources of income. Your actual take-home pay could vary depending on several factors, such as: Additional responsibilities or extra hours worked Other income sources Your final tax bracket Opting out of the NHS pension Claiming tax-deductible expenses Take-Home Pay Expectations in Northern Ireland For NHS consultants and specialty doctors working in Northern Ireland, your monthly take-home pay will fluctuate based on these variables. We recommend consulting with an IMG specialist to help you better understand your potential earnings and to explore ways to maximise your income. Keep in mind that NHS pay scales can be influenced by factors like experience, job responsibilities, and the specific Trust you’re employed by. By having a realistic understanding of your NHS consultant salary and how it translates into monthly take-home pay, you'll be better prepared for a successful career and life in the UK. 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 detailed information on NHS pay scales and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, check out our comprehensive series of blogs on career structure and NHS doctor pay in our IMG Resources library. These resources are designed to help international doctors understand their earning potential at various stages of their careers 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: