West Yorkshire is a Metropolitan county in the North of England, and consists of cities, towns and villages including Leeds, Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Wakefield and Huddersfield. West Yorkshire has an impressive population of 2.32 million and is known for its picturesque countryside and of course, its famous Yorkshire Dales, as well as its diverse community. In this article, we will be providing a glimpse of what it’s like to live in the different areas within West Yorkshire, and why it’s a fantastic county to relocate to.   Facts About West Yorkshire Keighley, a town in West Yorkshire, was the first British town to be twinned with a European town. On the outskirts of Leeds stands Middleton Colliery Railway, which is the oldest continuously operated railway in the world! Construction on the railway itself first commenced in 1755! Harry Ramsden’s, near Leeds, was the largest chip shop, with the original shop measuring 10 foot by 6 foot. Two of Yorkshire’s largest cities, Leeds and Bradford, are located in West Yorkshire. In 1888, a man named Louis le Prince recorded the first moving images and used Leeds Garden to achieve this. Two years after this achievement, he mysteriously disappeared! While English is the main language spoken in Yorkshire, its diverse community means that many school children speak more than one language. Yorkshire’s most well-known food is the Yorkshire pudding, which we would recommend trying with a roast dinner.   Where should I live?   Bradford Bradford is one of the largest cities in Yorkshire and is known for its arts and culture. Perhaps a reflection of this, one of Britain’s most well-known artists, David Hockney grew up in Bradford. Whilst West Yorkshire as a whole is known for its diverse community, it has been reported that 43% of primary school children in Bradford consider English to be their second language, making it an excellent city to locate to if a range of cultures is particularly important to you. There are two United Nationals Educations, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) sites in Bradford and it is also the first UNESCO city of film. Bradford is steeped in history, and you can find a great deal of beautiful Victorian architecture. It’s also home to a fantastic museum, galleries and a cathedral.   Calderdale Calderdale is a town, part of the South Pennines and is located to the South of the famous Yorkshire Dales. The South Pennines is known for its beautiful rivers and moorland, making it a scenic place to live. It is conveniently located between Leeds and Manchester, making it an excellent location if you don’t want to live in a large city, but would like to be able to work or make use of the facilities these cities have to offer. It’s a particularly great location if you enjoy the outdoors and hope to take long walks, bike rides and spend time outside.   Kirklees Kirklees is home to smaller towns, so again, an excellent place to relocate if you don’t want to live in a big city but want to be close to Leeds and Manchester. A wonderful location if you want to learn more about the history of Yorkshire, there are number of historic villages to explore, and you will also be able to sample its local produce. Kirklees is also known for its excellent schools and reasonable house prices.   Wakefield Wakefield is located in the heart of Yorkshire and is known for its beautiful cathedral. Similarly to Kirklees and Calderdale, it’s an excellent location if you wish to be close to Leeds, and it also offers great transport links to Doncaster. Its surrounding towns and villages also offer a great deal of history and culture.   Huddersfield Huddersfield is a town known for its rich culture and diversity of international foods. There are several free museums located in Huddersfield if you’d like to delve into Yorkshire’s history in your free time. There are also a number of family events such as live music and children’s craft workshops available on weekends. It’s also close to Leeds, Bradford and Manchester if you wish to venture further afield.   Leeds Like Bradford, Leeds is one of the largest cities in Yorkshire. It is considered to be a modern and lively city, whilst also being close to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Leeds has a great deal to offer, with museums, shopping and culture, it’s a hive of activity, whether you choose to live here, or just wish to be nearby. Well known for its shopping and culture, there are many events and festivals held here throughout the year, and it’s the perfect place to relocate to if you want a lively and cultural experience. Leeds is also known for its excellent education and is home to three fantastic universities. If you’d like to know more about Leeds, we’ve written an entire article about what it’s like to live there.   Cost of Living   Renting Accommodation Per Month One-Bedroom Apartment in the City Centre £660.23 One-Bedroom Apartment Outside of the City Centre £499.48 Three-Bedroom Apartment in the City Centre £1,150 Three-Bedroom Apartment Outside of the City Centre £810.43   Transportation 1ltr Petrol £1.28 One-Way Public Transport Ticket £2.50 Monthly Transport Ticket £60 1km Taxi Journey £1.55   Entertainment Meal out for two in a local pub £24 Meal out for two in a mid-range restaurant, three courses £40 Cinema tickets for two people £16 One month gym membership £26.58 Tennis court rental for 1 hour on the weekend £10.30 Beer 0.5ltr bottle £3.75 Coke/Pepsi 0.33ltr bottle £1.05 Cappuccino £2.64   Time it Takes to Travel by train to other areas in the UK Manchester: 1 Hour 39 Minutes Newcastle: 2 Hours 32 Minutes Birmingham: 2 Hours 53 Minutes London: 3 Hours 20 Minutes Liverpool: 2 Hours 20 Minutes Edinburgh: 4 Hours 16 Minutes Bristol: 4 Hours 22 Minutes Cardiff: 4 Hours 55 Minutes   Education in West Yorkshire   Leeds There are 255 primary schools, 66 secondary schools and 48 sixth forms and colleges in Leeds, and one of the UK’s largest universities can also be found here. Most of the schools in Leeds have received an Ofsted rating of ‘good’ whilst some have also received a rating of ‘outstanding’. Bradford There are 188 primary schools, 62 secondary schools, 49 sixth forms and colleges in Bradford, as well as a university. The majority of schools in Bradford have received an Ofsted rating of ‘good’ but many have also been awarded the ‘outstanding’ rating. Wakefield Wakefield has 124 primary schools, 36 secondary schools and 22 sixth forms and colleges. Like Bradford, most of the schools have been awarded an Ofsted rating of ‘good’ but a fair number have also received ‘outstanding’. Calderdale In Calderdale, there are 99 primary schools. 25 secondary schools and 18 sixth forms and colleges. A few schools in the area have been awarded ‘outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted, and many have also received ‘good’. Kirklees There are 168 primary schools, 50 secondary schools and 17 sixth forms and colleges. Most schools have been awarded ‘good’ ratings by Ofsted, but an impressive number have also received ‘outstanding’. Huddersfield Huddersfield is home to 31 primary schools, 11 secondary schools, 5 sixth forms and colleges, and it also has its own university. The vast majority of schools in the area have received ‘good’ ratings from Ofsted, with a few also being awarded ‘outstanding’ ratings. Overall, education in West Yorkshire is considered to be excellent, with a number of universities, and most of the schools in the area receiving ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted.   Things to do in West Yorkshire   Eureka! National Children’s Museum A fantastic family day out, Eureka! National Children’s Museum is located in Calderdale and is tailored to children aged 0-11. The museum boasts over 400 interactive exhibitions that actually allow children to handle the exhibits in order to explore the world around them.  The museum is open from 10:00-16:00 every day but is closed on Mondays, and tickets are priced at £13.95 for adults and children over 3 years of age. The fee for children between 1 and 2 years is £5.95, and children under 1 receive free entry.   Kirkgate Market Kirkgate Market reportedly brings in 10 million visitors every year and is the largest indoor market in Europe! Whether you’re shopping for clothes or food, the market boasts 600 stalls, 400 indoors and 200 outdoors, and with its diverse array of cultures, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs. The market hall itself is a listed, Edwardian building, so if you’re a fan of architecture, you’re sure to enjoy roaming through the stalls and taking in the sights of the building. You will also be able to find a farmer’s market on Sundays, and themed stalls throughout the year.   Alhambra Theatre The perfect evening out for those who enjoy some culture, Alhambra Theatre is known for hosting some of the largest scale events in Yorkshire such as musicals and dramas and is even home to Yorkshire’s biggest pantomime. You’ll also be able to enjoy ballet, Shakespeare, Disney, comedy and much more. If you’re feeling peckish before the show, there’s even a fantastic front of house space where you can wine and dine. They also have the Circle Café if you would prefer some coffee and a slice of cake.   Oakwell Hall Built in 1583, Oakwell Hall is a stately home that allows you to step back into British history and get a glimpse of life might have been like all those years ago. If you’re a fan of history and architecture, Oakwell Hall is a perfect day out, explore the home at your leisure, and even venture out into the 100 acres worth of gardens! Charlotte Brontë visited the house in the 19th century and was reportedly inspired to write it into her novel, Shirley, as ‘Fieldhead’. You can also find a visitor centre and gift shop if you wish to purchase a memento of your trip. If you’d like to stop for a bite to eat, there are picnic benches and a playground for children, or a café, if it’s a rainy day. The Hall is open on weekends and school holidays only, so the perfect place to visit during half-term. Entry is £3.50 for adults, £1 for children and £8 for family of two adults and up to four children.   Pugneys Country Park Located in the west of Wakefield city centre, Pugneys Country Park is the perfect day out if you’re seeking a bit of adventure. The park offers sailing, windsurfing and canoeing tuition and equipment hire, as well as bike rental if you’d prefer to take a leisurely cycle around the park. On a sunny day, there are a variety of walks providing beautiful views of Calder Valley. The lake that can be found at the heart of the park is a designated local nature reserve where you can experience and enjoy the wildlife that the UK has to offer. There is also a 100 acre water sports lake where you can experience the aforementioned sailing, windsurfing and canoeing. Whilst the park is the perfect venue for a family picnic, a café is also situated at the main reception.   Leeds City Museum Leeds Museum is free to enter, and open every day, except Mondays. Having opened in 1821, the museum has built a fantastic array of exhibitions from ancient Egypt to the natural world. There are a number of interactive galleries for children, craft sessions hosted during the school holidays, and a Community Choir for adults. After you’ve finished exploring the treasures of the past, you can relax and enjoy the on-site café and gift shop.   Relocation to West Yorkshire If you’re an international doctor looking to relocate to West Yorkshire, or another location in the UK, please email your CV to [email protected] and we can support you in securing an NHS post and on your journey to relocate to the UK. Are you a member of our Facebook Group? When you join IMG Advisor, you will join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of vlogs and blogs into the group every single day. We will also be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 45 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS! Listen to BDI Resourcing on the go with IMG Advisor the Podcast. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher and Buzzsprout. We have a number of episodes with tips and advice on relocating to the UK and the routes you can take to achieve this.   References BuzzFeed. (2020). 47 Things You Might Not Know About Yorkshire. [online] Available at: https://www.buzzfeed.com/danieldalton/yorkshire-facts [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Kirklees.gov.uk. (2020). About Kirklees | Kirklees Council. [online] Available at: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/executive-recruitment/about-kirklees.aspx [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Anon, (2020). [online] Available at: https://www.visitcalderdale.com/ [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Visitbradford.com. (2020). Discover Bradford. [online] Available at: https://www.visitbradford.com/bradford.aspx [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Experiencewakefield.co.uk. (2020). Events, attractions and things to do in Wakefield, Castleford, Pontefract & more.. [online] Available at: https://www.experiencewakefield.co.uk/ [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Information-britain.co.uk. (2020). Interesting facts from West Yorkshire. [online] Available at: http://www.information-britain.co.uk/countydidyouknow.php?county=97 [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Times, Y. (2020). Yorkshire Times. [online] Yorkshire Times. Available at: https://yorkshiretimes.co.uk/facts.php [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. trail, L. (2020). Learn about lively Huddersfield on a walking trail. [online] VisitEngland. Available at: https://www.visitengland.com/experience/luddites-ghosts-pick-heritage-trail-huddersfield [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Visitleeds.co.uk. (2020). Visit Leeds. [online] Available at: https://www.visitleeds.co.uk/ [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020]. Kirklees.gov.uk. (2020). Visitors | Kirklees Council. [online] Available at: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/visitors/index.aspx [Accessed 14 Jan. 2020].  

The journey to obtaining full GMC Registration with a licence to practice requires hard work, determination and passion. So, when the time comes to begin applying for NHS posts, it is a rather exciting time. However, it is essential that you are prepared well so you can demonstrate to the hospital that you are the perfect doctor for the job available. An interview is not just about reciting well-rehearsed answers to common question, it is an opportunity for a conversation between you and your prospective NHS Trust, a chance to build rapport, impress and gather essential information. When you are preparing and sitting your interview, consider the following: Research into the hospital, the department and the local area Make a good impression Positive body language Sound upbeat and positive Handle questions with confidence Correctly answer the clinical scenario Finish the interview on a confident note Example questions to ask at the end of an NHS interview: 1. Can you tell me more specifically about your department and why you have this opening? This question provides the department with the opportunity to tell you about the size of the department, the number of doctors and nurses working within it and the volume of patients seen. This will help provide you with an indication of the responsibilities and whether that meets your expectations. 2. What will a typical day/a weekly rota look like? Here you can get an indication into your hours, patients you will see, on-call schedule and weekend schedules and how the department is generally run. 3. What are the ultimate goals for this medical institution? It is important to first consider your own personal goals: What drove you into medicine? Why do you enjoy being a doctor? Then during the interview, you can find out the department’s goals and if your goals align, how you can help work towards those goals. 4. Will there be an opportunity to progress? This will show the department your ambition to succeed, it emphasises that you are conscious about your future career in the UK and that you indend to within that NHS Trust. It is always a good idea to be aware about progression opportunities as you do not want to later realise that there is no scope to move up. 5. Is there an opportunity for an induction? How will my performance be measured? Asking this will show that you want to develop your skills and you are striving to succeed within your new NHS role. 6. What are the next steps of the process? Some HR departments take a while to get back to you, so by asking this it can give you a rough idea of when you should expect to hear by and save you from excessively checking your emails. It is also a good neutral question to end on as it is a good way to draw the interview to a close. If you would like help with answering the questions asked by the NHS department, have a read of our blog post here where we provide example NHS interview questions with answers. Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor who has decided that you would like our support in securing an NHS service post, email your CV to [email protected] and we can support you in securing an NHS job and on your journey to the UK today. Are you a member of our Facebook Group? When you join IMG Advisor, you will join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group every single day. We will also always be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 45 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS!

Reflective practice is the exercise of analysing events that have been significant during your learning, training or employment in medicine. Not only is this an important technique to reflect on your own behaviours, but it will also be expected for revalidation, which we explained in a previous blog. In this article we will cover the topic of reflective practice, why it’s important and how you can do it. We should note that this article just offers an overview of the information provided by the GMC, and that for a more detailed explanation of reflective practice, you may refer to the GMC website.   What is Reflective Practice? The practice of reflecting in the UK has been endorsed and developed by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), the Conference of Postgraduate Medical Deans (COPMED), the General Medical Council (GMC) and the Medical Schools Council (MSC). It is considered an important way for doctors to look after their own wellbeing, as well as improve their practice for future patients. Medical students and doctors in training are expected to demonstrate their reflections in order to prove that they have developed good coping techniques to deal with the multitude of situations they are placed in. It is also necessary for revalidation, in which you are required to show the GMC that you are up to date and fit to practice. Reflective practice is the act of setting some time aside to analyse and look back on an event that has had a significant impact on you. This could have been something that took place during your learning, training, or whilst you have been employed. It is important to note that the events you reflect on do not have to be negative in nature, they can be positive too, the main focus is on an event that made an impact on you, that changed your perspective or the way you practice. Equally, it could also be an event that confirmed a certain belief for you that reinforces the way you practice. The events you reflect on don’t necessarily have to be situations you were directly involved in, you may reflect on an event you observed, a clinical interaction, a complaint or feedback you, or someone else received, reading or research, a meeting you attended, a conversation you had with a patient or colleague or even something you experienced during your training or studies that had a strong impact on you.   Why is Reflective Practice Important? Reflecting is important for a number of reasons.  First and foremost, reflection helps doctors to assess how well they are performing in their practice. By identifying a situation where perhaps, they could have acted differently, they could work to improve how they react to a similar situation in future, which will be beneficial for both the patient and the doctor. Many specialities actually incorporate reflective practice into their curriculums in order to help doctors start practicing reflection early in their medical career.  Reflection should also act to examine certain beliefs you may have about your practice. If an event challenges your beliefs, it can help you to approach a certain type of scenario in a new way. By practicing reflection, you will also demonstrate to colleagues and to future employers that you take a professional approach to your career development and that you value self-improvement. Not only can this prove beneficial to your relationships in your current working environment, but it will also reflect well on you in future interviews and job applications. Finally, as previously mentioned, it will be massively helpful for your own wellbeing. Reflecting on a difficult situation that you felt negatively about will help you to process your thoughts and feelings about the situation and hopefully, move on from it, and reflecting on situations that were positive will help to strengthen and build your confidence.   How Should I Practice Reflection? The GMC states that reflection should be part of a doctor’s everyday practice. The more often you do this, the more comfortable you will be with the concept. You should record your reflections in the event that you need to refer to them or share them, whether this is with an educational supervisor or a panel in significant events. Some e-portfolios will have spaces where you can record your reflections, or you could simply keep a record in a reflective diary or journal. It is recommended that you find somewhere to keep all of your reflections in one place, rather than recording them separately, this way they are well organised and easy to refer to. Some doctors like to make short notes immediately after an event to record the main details, and then come back to them and reflect fully on them later when they have the time and space to do so. You should try to set some time aside, if possible, to reflect without disruptions or distractions. When recording your reflections, try to be open and honest about an event, and particularly about how you felt. The content of the event itself does not need to be a detailed account of the situation, and importantly, it should not seek to place blame, as the purpose of reflection is not to document the factual information surrounding the event, as if it was a Significant Incident, it should be reported and the facts will be recorded elsewhere. Instead, you should focus on how you felt about the situation, any feedback you received, what you learned, and any changes you plan to make as a result of this event.  Some hospitals will have groups where you can practice reflection together, and you should be supported in being able to take the time and space to do this. An important thing to keep in mind when practicing reflection is that you will need to ensure that your reflections are anonymised, this is to adhere to confidentiality and information governance requirements. Any information about patients, relatives of patients and colleagues should be fully anonymised, as well as the location, time and date. The AoMRC, COPMED, MSC and GMC have provided a useful toolkit to help doctors learn how to reflect, and offer examples of reflections which you can read here. To give a brief overview though, they provide a framework of What? So What? Now What? To help structure the way you approach reflections. What? – This first part is where you should analyse your thoughts, actions and decisions at the time of the event, and how those three things had in impact on one another. The question they recommend you ask yourself is “what was I thinking when I took the actions or made the decision that I did?” So What? – For this second step, you should think about the significance of the situation that took place, as well as the feelings and values evoked by the event. They recommend you consider “how did I feel at the time or after the experience? Why was it important?” Now What? – For this final step, you should consider the opportunities and steps that can help you learn from the experience and alter or affirm future actions and development. It’s recommended that you ask, “what can I learn from or do differently next time?”   Do I need to Provide My Reflections to Anyone? When it comes to Revalidation, the GMC will expect you to be able to evidence that you are practicing reflection. That said, the GMC will usually not request documentation, just evidence that you are effectively reflecting on events. The reason they require this is to ensure that you are maintaining Good Medical Practice. In rare events, courts may acquire reflective notes if they feel that they are relevant to a case, but the GMC does not automatically ask doctors to provide their notes when investigating complaints or cases, only if they feel that a doctor’s reflective notes could offer real insight into the situation. Reflective notes must be disclosed if ordered by a judge or court officer or by statue. A final note on reflective practice is that there is no one way to do it, it is a personal experience, so you should find the best way that works for you. As long as you record this information and anonymise the details, and set some time aside to practice reflection, everything else is personal preference. This article has offered an overview of the advice and information provided on the GMC website, for further advice and tools, please refer to their website.   Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor hoping to relocate to the UK and join the NHS, email your CV to [email protected] and we would be happy to help you on your journey to relocate. Are you a member of our Facebook group? When you join IMG Advisor, you join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and blogs into the group every day. We will also be on hand to answer all of your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 50 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS! Listen to BDI Resourcing on the go with the IMG Advisor Podcast! You can find us on Apple Podcast, Stitcher, Spotify and Buzzsprout. We have several episodes with tips and advice on relocating to the UK and the routes you can take to achieve this. Keep your eyes peeled for the second season of our podcast, coming soon!   References Oxforddeanery.nhs.uk. (2020). Advice on Reflective Practice. [online] Available at: http://www.oxforddeanery.nhs.uk/trainees/advice_on_reflective_practice.aspx [Accessed 10 Jan. 2020]. Oxforddeanery.nhs.uk. (2020). [online] Available at: http://www.oxforddeanery.nhs.uk/pdf/Reflective%20Practice%20Toolkit.pdf [Accessed 10 Jan. 2020]. Oxforddeanery.nhs.uk. (2020). [online] Available at: http://www.oxforddeanery.nhs.uk/pdf/The%20reflective%20practitioner%20guidance.pdf [Accessed 10 Jan. 2020]. Oxforddeanery.nhs.uk. (2020). [online] Available at: http://www.oxforddeanery.nhs.uk/pdf/Summary%20of%20The%20reflective%20practitioner%20guidance.pdf [Accessed 10 Jan. 2020]. Wessexdeanery.nhs.uk. (2020). Reflective Practice. [online] Available at: http://www.wessexdeanery.nhs.uk/trainee_revalidation/reflective_practice.aspx [Accessed 10 Jan. 2020]. Copmed.org.uk. (2020). Reflective Practice - Conference Of Postgraduate Medical Deans. [online] Available at: https://www.copmed.org.uk/publications/reflective-practice [Accessed 10 Jan. 2020].  

Having a local bank account is essential for life in the UK; your NHS salary will be paid directly into it, you will need it to obtain a mobile contract, set up household bills and a debit card to pay for every day life. In this blog post, we discuss the documents you will need, fees and charges involved, how to choose which high street bank to bank with and credit cards. It is important to note that there is no legal barrier to opening a UK bank account as an international doctor, but each bank does have its own products which come with different rates, terms and conditions. So, you should always read the fine print before you agree to open an account with them. Documents needed To open a bank in the UK, you will need to evidence your identity, address, salary and your biometric residence permit (BRP). This allows banks to maintain their security and ensure accounts are not used for illegal activity. 1. Proof of Identification To evidence your identity, you will need to show a current photo ID. Typically, doctors use a valid passport to do so. Other documents are accepted such as your driving licence or your BRP. 2. Proof of Address Each high street bank has their own list of documents that they will accept for your proof of address. So, you will need to double check exactly what your chosen bank requires before you visit the branch to open up your account. Typically, doctors use an Air B n B address or hospital accommodation. 3. Salary As you will not have an available credit history, the bank may ask you to provide evidence of your yearly salary. You can obtain this evidence from your hospital’s HR department. Try and obtain this letter before you attend your appointment at the bank. 4. BRP Evidencing your BRP is needed to confirm your right to reside in the UK. Doctors typically receive their BRP 3-7 days after arriving. All documents must usually be original, issued within the last three months and show your full name and UK address. The Application Process The process can differ slightly depending on the bank. We advise that you call the branch in ahead of attending in person and confirm the documents that you need to open up an account. The typical steps are: Collect all of the required documentation Complete the banks application form Book an appointment at a local branch of your choice Attend your appointment to show your original documents Make a deposit It can take a few days for your bank card and security number (PIN) to arrive in the post Please note, it can sometimes take a week or two to book an appointment in busy high street branches i.e. in major cities, so, planning ahead is essential. How much does it cost? Opening up a UK bank account is typically free; however, you may be required to have a certain amount paid into your account each month. With regards to ATM fees, typically high street cash machines are free to use if you have a UK-issued debit card. However, ATM machines you find in airports, train stations or pubs may charge a fee for cash withdrawals, usually around £1.50-3 per transaction. The machine will always notify you that there is a charge to use the service so, do check the screen before you enter your card and PIN. How to choose your high street bank Everybody’s banking needs are personal. If you have a healthy balance with lots of savings, you may be interested in the bank that pays the most interest. Or potentially, to aid your relocation you might seek a bank that does not charge for you to use their overdraft facilities. Click here to compare high street banks. Monzo Monzo was established in 2016 and it is a bank that will live on your smartphone and it is completely free to use. The bank allows you to sort your salary when you get paid into spending, saving and bills. You are able to set specific spending budgets for different categories, such as your food shop, entertainment or eating out so, you can track how well you are doing for each month. There are two main advantages to Monzo. The first is that you can withdraw up to £200 per month abroad for free, from £200+ you will be charged 3%. Second, you can open up an account by simply uploading your passport and a video of yourself to the app. Applications are usually accepted in 1-2 days. For further information, please click here. How I open a UK bank account from overseas? Depending on what country you are residing in, you may be able to open up a UK bank account from overseas. Many British banks have a correspondent banking relationship with countries overseas. These accounts are designed for non-residents, so they are the perfect option if you cannot evidence a UK address. Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC and NatWest offer international accounts. However, typically opening an international account from outside the UK can require a large initial deposit and you must commit to pay in a minimum amount of money each month. Some banks will charge you a monthly fee in addition to these requirements. Can I get a UK credit card? As you will be new to the UK, you might have difficulty getting access to credit, even if you did have good credit history in your home country. Credit reference agencies in the UK do not share data with similar agencies overseas, so when you first arrive in the UK, it is essentially like you are “invisible” to lenders and because they do not have any record of what you are like with money, therefore you might find it is harder to take out a credit card and loans. If you have made an application for credit but been refused, it is not sensible to make too many applications. Lots of applications in a short space of time could damage your credit history, even if you have not been successful with your applications. What can I do? If you had good credit in your home country, you could contact your bank manager and ask them to provide you with a reference to your local branch in the UK. You could also consider applying for a “Credit Card Builder”, a credit card available for those building their credit. You should note that these cards often have higher interest rates, with the average interest rate 30% (January 2020). Click here to compare cards. Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor who has decided that you would like our support in securing an NHS service post, email your CV to [email protected] and we can support you in securing an NHS job and on your journey to the UK today. Are you a member of our Facebook Group? When you join IMG Advisor, you will join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group every single day. We will also always be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 45 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS! References The Telegraph. (2020). Tips for opening a UK bank account. [online] Available at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/transferwise/how-to-open-a-bank-account-in-uk/ [Accessed 6 Jan. 2020]. Vanquis.co.uk. (2020). Getting a Credit Card as a New UK Resident - Vanquis. [online] Available at: https://www.vanquis.co.uk/understanding-credit/financial-problems/overseas-uk-credit-rating [Accessed 6 Jan. 2020].

A police clearance certificate will be necessary once you have received a job offer from an NHS hospital, your new employer will need this for them to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for you, and you will also need this documentation to apply for your Tier 2 Visa. In this article, we will be explaining what a police clearance certificate is, and how you can acquire one.   What is a Police Clearance Certificate? As of April 6th 2017, anyone intending to relocate to the UK and work within the health, education or social care sectors must provide a police clearance certificate. The reason for this is that anyone working within these sectors will be in contact with vulnerable people, and this documentation is in place to try and safeguard the welfare of those individuals. A police clearance certificate will confirm that an applicant does not have a criminal record. Conversely, if an individual does have a criminal record or any pending trials or convictions, this will appear within the police clearance certificate. If a certificate states that an individual has been arrested or charged and is currently awaiting prosecution, your application will either be put on hold, pending the outcome of the case, or, depending on the severity of the crime, your application may be refused.   How do I Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate? Police clearance certificates are usually issued either by the police, or by a law enforcement authority agency, depending on the procedures in place in the country you are obtaining the certificate from. You will need to acquire police clearance certificates from any countries you have spent twelve or more months (either in one period or over several separate visits) in the last ten years prior to the date of your application whilst you have been eighteen years of age or older. If any dependants over the age of eighteen will be making the move to the UK with you, they will also need to obtain police clearance certificates. Most countries have procedures in place to issue criminal record certificates, whether you are a citizen of that country, or you were simply a third country national living, working or visiting. As each country will have different procedures in place, you will need to find out who you need to contact in any countries you need to obtain certificates from, you can find out about the processes, costs and relevant information involved in obtaining certificates here. If a country isn’t on the list, you can instead contact a country’s High Commission or Embassy to find out what their process is.   Regional Certificates or National Certificates Some countries do not provide national certificates. A national certificate covers any criminal records for the entirety of the country. If possible, you should attempt to obtain a national certificate. If a national certificate is not available, you may instead be provided with regional certificates. Regional certificates, as the name suggests, will only cover a certain region, state or province within the country. In the circumstance that you are only able to obtain regional certificates for a country you lived in, you will need to provide certificates for each of the areas you stayed in during your time within that country, as well as evidence that you resided within that region (such as a utility bill), and proof that you have attempted to obtain a national certificate first, but none were available.   What should I do if I can’t Obtain a Certificate? If a country doesn’t have a process in place, and you have attempted to contact the country’s High Commission or Embassy but still haven’t been successful, you may be granted exemption. In place of a certificate, you will need to provide a written explanation as to why you cannot obtain the certificate. You may also be exempt from providing a certificate if you fled a country for humanitarian reasons and are unable to re-establish contact with the relevant authorities, if there is international or internal conflict, or finally, if there is currently, or has been a humanitarian disaster within that country.   What makes a Certificate Valid? You will need to provide either a scanned or original copy of the certificate or certificates issued by the relevant authorities, and if the original certificate is not in English, you will need to have it translated by an official translation body. You can find a list of translation services for each country here. It is also important to note that whether you provide the original or a scanned copy, it will likely be retained for at least 2 years. In order for a document to be valid, the certificate from your most recent country of residence should have been issued no earlier than six months prior to the date you are applying. If you do not provide certificates, or a reasonable explanation why you cannot provide certificates, you will not have met the requirements so your application will likely be refused. If you do not provide police certificates, the hospital or the home office may request them, if they do, you will need to provide them and they will need to be received within 28 working days of the request having been made.   Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor with plans to relocate to the UK and join the NHS, email your CV to [email protected] and we would be happy to help you on your relocation journey. Are you a member of our Facebook group? When you join IMG Advisor, you join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group each day. We will also be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 50 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS! Listen to BDI Resourcing on the go with the IMG Advisor Podcast! You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and Buzzsprout. We have a number of episodes with tips and advice on relocating to the UK and the routes you can take to achieve this.   References Gov.uk. (2020). [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/673331/criminal-record-certificate-guidance-v2.0ext.pdf [Accessed 7 Jan. 2020]. GOV.UK. (2020). General work visa (Tier 2). [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/tier-2-general/documents-you-must-provide [Accessed 7 Jan. 2020]. GOV.UK. (2020). Get a copy of your police records. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/copy-of-police-records [Accessed 7 Jan. 2020]. GOV.UK. (2020). Guidance on the application process for criminal records checks overseas. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/criminal-records-checks-for-overseas-applicants/guidance-on-the-application-process-for-criminal-records-checks-overseas [Accessed 7 Jan. 2020].  

Choosing a both reputable and ethical agency is essential to ensure a successful international recruitment campaign. In this blog post, we share the top six reasons on how to guarantee your NHS Trust partners with the best medical recruitment agency. NHS Procurement in Partnership Framework The most important factor to consider is whether the medical recruitment agency in question is part of the NHS Procurement in Partnership Framework. This framework gives permission to a particular number of agencies to directly supply doctors to all NHS Trusts. You can find BDI Resourcing listed on the NHS’ PiP Recruitment Agency list here. Case Studies Case studies are one of the most valuable tools when deciding which agency to go into business with. Case studies will help you establish an agency’s expertise. By reading into their data, facts and figures regarding their service to hospitals is one of the best ways to make your decision. A case study will give you a great insight into how they have solved hospital staffing problems and provided transformative solutions; it will help certain agencies stand out from others, with a clear explanation to the value that they can offer your hospital. Expertise Your requirements for a doctor can often be very specific and so, it is invaluable to have a Specialist Recruiter on hand who understands and has access to a database of doctors for each medical specialty. Sourcing, profiling and screening doctors with the right qualifications and experience can be a difficult process. The documentation required for a doctor is also a complex and lengthy process. You should therefore always ask if you will be liaising with one Specialist Recruitment Consultant throughout the process. Furthermore, the agency should also put you in contact with their Compliance and Relocation Support team so, once you have made a doctor a job offer, they can aid them with obtaining their references, CoS documents, Tier 2 visa documents and help with the relocation process itself. To summarise, it is important that the agency you work with has a strong strategy for candidate selection and campaign management to allow you to dedicate more time into your internal resources and concentrating on improving your hospital. Online Presence A highly reputable and professional agency will be in a position to access a range of quality, active and passive doctors in addition to possessing a wide network of contacts collected over their years in the business. The agency should search engine optimise their job adverts to rank highly in job searches. Doctors who are actively seeking work in the UK are more likely to register with a recruitment agency that has a high reputation through word of mouth. This can be evidenced by their reviews, including both Google and Facebook. Looking at a company’s online presence can give you an insight into their culture, values, reputation and their skills and knowledge within the industry. Website A good staffing website is a good indicator of success. Looking at a medical recruitment company’s website will help you decide on their credibility and provide you with a clear introduction into the quality of their service. If the website has easy navigation, it will help doctors navigate seamlessly through various job lists, across a variety of specialties and make the task of staffing, simpler and quicker. Second, it is essential for their website to possess keywords and have SEO rich content. For a recruitment agency to reach the top of the search engine results page, there are some SEO tactics that every staffing website must incorporate. Having these functions will increase the traffic to their website as doctors seeking UK jobs will find it easier to find the company, easier to navigate through the content and job lists and apply to jobs – increasing the pool of doctors you can choose from. Third, what content is posted on their website? Do they provide free information for all to access? Do they provide clear help and support? Can you clearly see their values? Their policies? Have they received awards? Social Media Presence A medical recruitment agency’s social media presence is their entire brand. 42% of the world’s population uses social media and so, a strong social media presence for a medical recruitment agency is essential. Looking at their social media channels will portray their personality, their culture and their professionalism. As we know, we are having to look further afield for doctors, so a good social media presence will allow an agency to be contacted with highly experience and qualified doctors fast and consistently. They can engage with their target audience and find doctors they may never have found through traditional hiring methods. On a platform like LinkedIn, you can specifically target your connections and an audience that relates to your business via paid and organic job advertisements. It is essential to make sure that the agency you work with abides by ethical recruitment and they do not target any countries in particular. Although social media is a fantastic way of advertising medical opportunities within the NHS, it is important an agency’s feed does not just consist of job adverts. When researching, look to see if they provide doctors with free information in the form of vlogs, YouTube videos, infographics… If they have strong community engagement, they are likely to be the right agency for you. Rates and Rebates When you decide to work with a medical recruitment company, always ask for the rates and rebates terms. If you work with a good, reputable agency they will provide you with good fees that will help you save money in the long-run compared to using agency locum staff to fill long-term gaps. Each medical recruitment agency will have their own rates and rebate scale, so always check this before you agree to partner with them. If you are interested in visiting our website, social media pages or using our services to support you email us at [email protected]

PACES is the final examination before you obtain your Membership of the Royal College of Physicians. PACES can be a difficult exam to pass and so, in this blog post we share our advice on how to ensure you successfully pass your exam and make you that one step closer to securing an NHS job offer. What is PACES? In the PACES exam, you will be assessed on your ability to carry out essential clinical skills. There are five clinical stations where there will be patients with a given condition or trained stand-ins. At each station, there will be two independent examiners. You will start at any one of the five stations and then move round the stations at 20-minute intervals until you have completed the cycle. There will be a five-minute period between each station. Station 1: Respiratory (10 minutes) Abdominal (10 minutes) Station 2: History Taking (20 minutes) Station 3: Cardiovascular (10 minutes) Neurological (10 minutes) Station 4: Communication Skills and Ethics (20 minutes) Station 5: Brief Clinical Consultation 1 (10 minutes) Brief Clinical Consultation 2 (10 minutes) MRCP PACES Pass Rate Doctors who have previously attempted MRCP PACES between 12-24 months after graduation are very unlikely to pass so bear this in mind when booking your exam. The pass rate increases to 60% for doctors who attempt between 24-36 months of graduation. While those who wait until they have 36-48 months of experience post-graduation, have a 77% pass rate. Think, the more experience the more likely you are to pass. Plan Ahead The most important step is to be organised and plan ahead. Look at the examination syllabus, the modules you will be tested on and then plan around that. MRCP Part 1 and 2 provides you with most of the knowledge you need to know for Medicine, however, PACES is about applying that knowledge to patient scenarios. Once you have organised your revision schedule, you will then need to practice. Clinical Practice It is important to provide yourself with opportunities to examine your friends, unwell patients, examine your spouse, sibling or your parents – in English, against the exam syllabus. Focus on your examination routines until you do not have to give a second’s thought into what you are doing and what you need to do next. When examining a patient, you should always be thinking about what you are going to need to tell them (in this case, the examiners posing as patients). Examination Skills The PACES exam requires you to evidence a series of skills: Skill A: Physical Examination – You must be able to examine a patient in a smooth, methodical and technically correct manner. To gain marks in this area you should not: miss things out, hesitate, examine a patient through their clothing, use an incorrect technique or have an unprofessional manner. Skill B: Identifying Physical Signs – Failing to identify clinical signs is one of the most common reasons to fail PACES. You will also need to present your findings in a calm, confident and clear manner to your examiners. Skill C: Clinical Communication Skills – It is absolutely essential to get an accurate history, address the patient’s ideas, concerns and expectations. In the exam, you should always avoid medical jargon, always speak professionally and considerately, elicit important information and provide it in an accurate and clear manner. Skill D: Differential Diagnosis – If you fail to identify physical signs you will also lose points on differential diagnosis. To get points under this area, you will need to consider the correct diagnosis, avoid providing a long list of textbook differentials which would not likely apply to the patient in front of you. Skill E: Clinical Judgement: This will test your ability to make a sensible plan for the patient. This includes any possible investigations and management of your diagnosis. Skill F: Managing Patient Concerns – Here you should follow the acronym “ICE”: address all ideas, concerns and expectations. You will need to demonstrate that you have asked the patient if they have any questions and answer them in an accurate and sympathetic manner. Then you must always confirm that they understand. Skill G: Maintaining Patient Welfare – It is essential to treat every single patient with respect and dignity. You can fail this skill by being disrespectful, being insensitive, causing pain and endangering patient safety. Useful Revision Resources Books Cases for PACES Clinical Medicine for MRCP PACES PACES for MRCP PACES YouTube MRCP PACES stations E-Learning Royal College of Physicians Revision Notes MRCP PACES Notes Medical Education Leeds Imperial Preparation Guide Relocation to the UK If you are an international Medicine doctor who would like support in securing an NHS service post, email your CV to [email protected] and we can support you in securing an NHS job and on your journey to the UK today. Are you a member of our Facebook Group? When you join IMG Advisor, you will join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group every single day. We will also always be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 45 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS!

As it’s a new year and a new decade, we’re kicking 2020 off by sharing our top twenty videos and blogs from 2019. We’ve specifically chosen the articles that you found the most helpful, and that we hope you continue to refer to as we venture into a brand new year. So, if you’re planning to relocate to the UK in 2020, you might want to check out our top twenty posts from 2019.   Videos 2019 was a busy year for our YouTube channel, we managed to put out an amazing 54 videos for you all, covering a wide variety of topics from GMC registration advice to information on securing the perfect NHS job. It was quite the task to narrow it down to only ten, but here were your top ten favourite videos we shared in 2019.   10. NHS Interviews – In tenth position was our video on NHS interviews in which we explained the format of NHS interviews, the most successful ways to prepare for an interview, how to use Skype, and offer letters. This one will still be handy for any doctors embarking on interviews in 2020!   9.  IELTS UKVI v UKNARIC – This video explored the differences between the English language exams that can be used for GMC registration and also for your Tier 2 Visa application. There is a particular focus on IELTS UKVI, IELTS Academic and UKNARIC in this video. It is important to mention that when this vlog was recorded, OET was not yet accepted for Tier 2 Visa applications; however, as of October 1st 2019, you can now use OET for your Tier 2 Visa application.   8. How to Write an NHS Medical CV – In this video, we talked through the do’s and don’ts of writing a good NHS medical CV, and the importance of ensuring that your CV is of a high quality and how this can help you to secure a job in the UK. If you’re hoping to make some applications in 2020, we would recommend having a watch of this one.   7. Types of NHS Jobs and UK Relocation Myths – We debunked some common UK relocation myths in this video, such as the misconception that only university teaching hospitals offer training to doctors (not true!). We also described some of the different jobs that international doctors can secure within the NHS.   6. PLAB v Postgraduate Qualification – A question on the minds of many IMGs is whether they should embark on completing PLAB or a postgraduate qualification in order to obtain GMC registration. In this video, we explained the advantages and disadvantages of both, as well as some tips on how you can utilise social media to help you pass your exams.   5. Epic Verification for GMC Registration – Some doctors are not aware that they need to obtain EPIC verification for their primary medical qualification prior to applying for GMC registration, so in this video, we clarified what EPIC verification is, which qualifications need to be verified, and how you can go about doing this.   4. Applying via NHS Jobs or via a Recruitment Agency – We’re sometimes asked if it’s better to apply for jobs directly through the NHS jobs website, or whether it’s preferable to apply through an agency. We explained the pros and cons of both, and how agencies like ours can offer support to international doctors on their relocation journey.   3. CESR – Our third most popular video of 2019 was our CESR vlog. Many doctors are eager to get on to the Specialist Register once they relocate to the UK, so in this video, we explained how CESR works, and the differences between CESR, CESR CT and CCT.   2. NHS Training Jobs vs Non-Training Jobs – Our second most popular video amongst international doctors in 2019 was our vlog comparing NHS training jobs and non-training jobs. We also covered some information about Deaneries and how doctors can successfully obtain a training post.   1. NHS Salaries – Perhaps unsurprisingly, the video you enjoyed the most in 2019 was our NHS Salaries vlog! We understandably receive many queries regarding the salaries you can expect to receive if you decide to relocate to the UK, so in this video, we explained the Consultant and Specialty Doctor pay scale.   Blogs In 2019, we were able to provide you all with a fantastic 126 blog posts! Like our videos, these covered an array of topics such as how to prepare for postgraduate exams, and the latest news and updates regarding applying for GMC registration or a Tier 2 Visa. Here are your favourite blog articles from 2019.   10. What Evidence do I Need for my Application to the GMC? – In our tenth most popular blog of 2019, we outlined the documentation you will need in order to apply for GMC registration, and what you need to do in order to be eligible to apply. We get asked about GMC registration a lot, so this is one you will hopefully still find useful going into 2020.   9.  Brexit: What Does it Mean for IMGS? – A very topical post at number 9. Unsurprisingly, you wanted to know how Brexit had impacted the number of international doctors relocating to the UK. In this article, we explained what Brexit is, why it’s happening, and the numbers of British and non-British medical staff working in the NHS at the time this blog was published.   8. How to Apply for Specialty Training via Oriel – In this blog, we explained what Oriel is, and how international doctors can use it to obtain specialty training, as well as what you should include in your application.   7. What is the Difference Between Indefinite Leave to Remain and British Citizenship? – With potentially huge changes on the horizon, our article explaining the difference between IRL and British Citizenship was the seventh most popular post. We also explored some of the benefits of obtaining British Citizenship, and what makes you eligible to apply.   6. Overview of EDAIC Part 1 – In response to your queries, we endeavoured to write a series of blogs about the postgraduate qualifications available to IMGs, the benefits of each of them and how you could go about preparing for them. In our sixth most popular article, we offered an overview of Part 1 of the European Diploma of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (EDAIC), the costs involved, the format of the exam, and some study resources to help you pass.   5. How to get CCT and onto the Specialist Register – Another question we are frequently asked is how you can go about getting a Certificate Completion of Training (CCT) and get on to the Specialist Register. In this post, we described the process of obtaining a CCT, what makes you eligible, and other pathways available to you if you are not eligible.   4. Q&A with Jil Shah, A&E CT1 Doctor – It can be incredibly inspiring to read about the relocation journeys of other IMGs, and so in this article, we shared Dr Jil Shah’s story of her relocation journey, and her experience of life in the UK and working for the NHS.   3. Change to the Junior Doctor Contract – Our third most read blog of 2019 was an update on the contract offered to junior doctors in the NHS. This contract ensures that conditions and pay for junior doctors are better than they were previously, and with so many doctors hoping to complete PLAB and enter the UK in a junior position, we were happy to report on this!   2. WAST: Widening Access to Specialty Training for IMGs – One of the blogs you enjoyed most in 2019 was our blog on WAST. In this article, we explained what WAST is, what makes you eligible, the benefits of WAST, and how you can apply!   1.How to secure Temporary Accommodation in the UK – The blog post you enjoyed the most in 2019 was our article on how you can secure temporary accommodation. This is a particularly helpful one for those coming to the UK for an ID check, or when you first relocate to the UK. We explained what options are available, and how you can go about securing a place to stay.   As you can see, 2019 was an incredibly busy year for the team here at BDI Resourcing, but we’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support throughout the year and going forward into 2020. To wrap up this article, we’d like to ask you, what kind of content would you like to see from us in 2020? If there is anything you would like us to explain in a video or blog article, please feel free to reach out to us on our Facebook page, and we will continue to offer you helpful and informative content and advice in the future. Happy New Year from everyone at BDI Resourcing!   Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor with plans to relocate to the UK and join the NHS, email your CV to [email protected] and we would be happy to help you on your relocation journey. Are you a member of our Facebook group? When you join IMG Advisor, you join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group daily. We will also be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 50 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS! Listen to BDI Resourcing on the go with the IMG Advisor Podcast! You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher and Buzzsprout. We have several episodes with tips and advice on relocating to the UK and the routes you can take to achieve this.  

The NHS is the largest employer in the UK and Europe employing over 1.5 million people in hundreds of different roles. Within the NHS, there are over 60 specialisms to work within. By joining, you will have access to: World-class teaching and training Career development and flexible career paths An excellent pension scheme Good quality of living In this blog post, we share our guide on the two ways to apply for NHS jobs via direct applications and a recruitment agency. We give you our top tips on providing successful supporting statements, the advantages of using a recruitment agency and how to write a good medical CV: all essential elements to successfully securing an NHS job. Job Opportunities As mentioned, when you are ready to start making NHS job applications, you have several resources available to you: direct applications via NHS Jobs, job boards and Recruitment Agencies. Once you have found a position you would like to apply for, you need to make sure that your application does your experience and personality justice to provide you with the best possibility of securing an interview. This means that you should always read the job description and person specification to highlight how your current duties, responsibilities and experience match up with the hospital’s requirements for the role advertised. Providing Good Supporting Information To be in for a chance of securing an NHS interview, it is essential that you read all of the instructions within the advertisement and application form very carefully and that you complete all the sections available. The next and most important part of the process is to sell yourself to the hospital. In the supporting information element of your application, demonstrate why you would be suitable for the post and how you meet the person specification. You need to convince the hospital that you have all the required skills, knowledge and experience that they should be inviting you for an interview. You can include, among other things, details about your: Duties and responsibilities Your skills, knowledge and/or experience which is relevant Identify any employment gaps and how you kept up to date with medical change Voluntary work you have accomplished Research, publication and/or presentation experience Medical awards or achievements What will the hospital look at when reading your application? Enthusiasm: Show that you are confident in your abilities and that you see this job as a positive opportunity/challenge Evidence of clarity of thought: Ensure that your statement is structured and does not ramble Awareness of what the job will entail: Try to show that you have read and understood the job description. Often you can do this by referring to skills, abilities, knowledge or experience you have that would benefit you in the tasks and objective of the new job Knowledge about the Trust: Most NHS Trusts have extensive websites with lots of information about how they operate and what their values are. Do some research and refer to it where relevant in your application An engaging statement: You want to leave the department wanting to find out more about you as a doctor. One example, you could write about an interesting project you have participated in How you will add value: It is absolutely crucial that you show that you have a passion for the role and why you want to work in that department and hospital and how you will add value General Points to Remember when applying for an NHS job Provide an example of each skill listed on the person specification Be concise Relate your experience to the post that you are applying for Using a Recruitment Agency If you would like to maximise your chances of securing an NHS job post sooner rather than later, we always advise using both NHS jobs and a reputable Recruitment Agency simultaneously. The process of using a recruitment agency starts with you registering your details with them in additional to a finalised and detailed CV. The Agency will then telephone you to find out more about your personal situation, what brings you to want to relocate to the UK, your experience, your requirements and your career plans. They will then give you feedback on your CV in order to increase your chances of securing an NHS interview. The Recruitment Agency will then contact their extensive network of Lead Consultants and HR Managers with your profile bypassing the normal recruitment processes done via NHS jobs. If you are invited to an NHS interview, your Recruitment Consultant will then help you successfully prepare with a mock interview with example clinical scenarios. The main advantage for you is that NHS interviews are organised on your behalf, without you having to do any work. Possessing a Good Medical CV During your NHS job search, you will need to have a very well written and detailed CV. The length of a CV is always a combative issue. On average, a Consultant’s CV for a medical specialty will be approximately 10 pages long. However, for a Middle Grade or Junior Medical CV, there are not a specific ‘right’ number of pages. However, we always advise doctors to think “the more details, the better” when writing out their medical CV. That being said, the purpose of your CV is to get you short-listed for an interview, so it should always be presented in a well-ordered and concise fashion. Remember to use a professional, small font and it should always be written in black with no images or personal details such as your martial status or date of birth present. For further information on how to structure your CV, have a read our blog here and watch our YouTube video here. Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor who has decided that you would like our support in securing an NHS service post, email your CV to [email protected] and we can support you in securing an NHS job and on your journey to the UK today. Are you a member of our Facebook Group? When you join IMG Advisor, you will join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group every single day. We will also always be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 45 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS!

Once you have found a property to rent in the UK, you may be wondering what your responsibilities as a tenant are, and what your landlord’s responsibilities will be. In this article, we will be explaining what will be expected of you, what you can expect of your landlord, what to do at the end of your tenancy, and who you should contact if any issues arise during your tenancy.   Before Moving In Documents Prior to moving into the property, there are several documents that your landlord must provide you with. We covered which documents your landlord will need from you in a previous article. Firstly, and most importantly, you should make sure that you receive a written tenancy agreement from your landlord. This should specify the length of your tenancy, what changes you can and can’t make to the property, and the notice period required should you wish to end the tenancy early. Before you sign this agreement, ensure that you have read and understood the terms. If you are uncertain about anything in your tenancy agreement, seek advice from Shelter before you agree to sign. We would also recommend that you ensure your tenancy agreement includes a break clause. A break clause allows you to give your landlord notice if you wish to leave the property before the end of your tenancy without incurring any fees for breaking the terms of your contract. It will usually mean that if you wish to leave, you will need to provide your landlord with a set notice period in writing, and will ensure that when your notice ends, your tenancy will end, your right to live in the property will end and you will not be liable for ongoing rent. A break clause will also generally state a given period of time that must pass before you are able to make use of this clause, for example, it may state that you can offer a month’s notice after you are six months into your contract. If you would like to learn more about break clauses, you can read about them on the Shelter website. You and your landlord should agree to a check-in report or inventory before you move into the property. An inventory will outline any furniture, appliances or belongings that the landlord is leaving in the property for the use of tenants, and if damaged at the end of your tenancy, your landlord may keep part, or all your deposit as compensation for any damage to these items. It is advisable to take photographs of any belongings left in the property by your landlord, prior to you moving in, just in case there is any dispute about the condition of these objects at the end of your tenancy.  Once you move in, take meter readings at your earliest convenience, this is to ensure that you don’t end up paying for any of the previous tenant’s bills. Finally, ensure that your landlord follows a code of practice. A code of practice ensures that a property is of a good quality and high standard. You can read about the code in detail here.   Documents your Landlord Should Provide you with There are several documents your landlord should provide you with either before you move in, or within the first month or so of you residing in the property. Contact Details Perhaps most importantly, your landlord or letting agency should provide you with contact details should you need to contact them in an emergency or about any issues that may arise with the property. Legally, you can be made aware of your landlord’s name and address.   Renting Checklist As mentioned in our previous article about renting, your landlord should provide you with a copy of the renting checklist. This checklist is a document outlining what you should be aware of throughout the renting process and should help you to remain aware of your rights and responsibilities, as well as the rights and responsibilities of your landlord.   Gas Safety Certificate Gas safety certificates confirm that any appliances fueled by gas within the property have been checked and are safe for your use. You should receive a copy of this when you first move into the property. Checks should be completed annually, something your landlord will be responsible for arranging, and you should also receive a certificate within 28 days of each gas safety check.   Deposit Paperwork If your landlord or agency has requested a deposit, it is the responsibility of your landlord to protect it in a government approved scheme within 30 days of receiving the deposit, and they should inform you of any information regarding this. It is also important for you to understand how you will get your deposit back at the end of your tenancy, so be sure to discuss this with your landlord or agency when you first pay your deposit.   Energy Performance Certificate The energy performance certificate determines the cost of energy bills for a property, unless the property is multiple occupancy, where common areas such as the kitchen and living room are shared by multiple tenants. Properties rented after April 1st, 2018 must have an energy performance rating of E.   Electrical Inspection Records Electrical appliances provided by the landlord in a property should be checked every five years, and so you should receive a record of the most recent inspection to ensure that all electrical appliances within the property are safe.   Evidence that Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Alarms are Working Your landlord should also provide evidence that any smoke detectors or carbon monoxide alarms are in working order before you move in. All properties should contain a smoke detector on each floor of the property, so if this is missing, you should request that your landlord install them. If the property you intend to move into has a woodburning stove or fireplace, then it should have a carbon monoxide alarm in addition to the previously mentioned smoke detectors.   Responsibilities During your tenancy, both landlords and tenants have certain responsibilities. We will go into detail about these, but to give you a brief idea, landlords have a responsibility to ensure that their property is safe and habitable for tenants, and tenants have a responsibility to respect and maintain the property.   Tenant Responsibilities   Pay your Rent on Time Your main responsibility as a tenant will be to pay your rent on time. Generally, tenants will pay rent monthly, but in certain circumstances, it is possible to pay an annual fee instead.  If you fail to pay your rent within 14 days, you may have to pay a default fee. It’s also likely that if you continually fail to pay your rent, your landlord will evict you for breaking your tenancy agreement.   Pay your Bills As well as your rent, it will also be your responsibility to pay your council tax, gas, electricity and water bills, unless your tenancy agreement states that these bills are included in your rental agreement.   Maintain the Property It is important to ensure that you maintain the cleanliness and condition of the property where you can. Whilst the landlord will be responsible for larger issues, you should be considerate of the property, cleaning regularly and completing smaller tasks such as changing lightbulbs. If you wish to redecorate, you should consult with your landlord beforehand to ensure that they are happy for you to make changes, or to discuss what changes you can or can’t make. If any appliances provided by the landlord break, or if any plumbing, electrical or structural issues arise, make sure to contact your landlord immediately so that they can resolve these issues promptly. Whilst it is the landlord’s duty to ensure that any issues are resolved, you will be equally responsible for reporting any problems. It is also advisable to take out contents insurance, as even if your landlord has insurance, it likely won’t cover your personal possessions, only the possessions provided by the landlord.   Be Considerate of Neighbours If you will be living in a property where you will have neighbours, it is important to be respectful of your neighbours by ensuring that you are not disruptive (e.g. playing loud music late at night) or anti-social (harassing or threatening your neighbours). If your landlord receives reports that you have exhibited disruptive or anti-social behavior, it is possible that they may take actions to evict you.   Subletting Subletting is when a tenant rents the property, or a room in the property, out to someone else. Generally, this practice is illegal as the landlord is often not made aware that their property is being let out by the tenants. If you do wish to sublet the property you are living in, make sure to seek permission from your landlord, and if they refuse, do not proceed with plans to sublet.   Be Aware of the Property When you first move into the property, ensure that you are aware of how to operate the boiler and any appliances provided to you by the landlord. It will also be your responsibility to ask where the stopcock, fuse box and meters are.   Test the Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Whilst it is the landlord’s responsibility to ensure that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and that they are functioning when you initially move in, it will be your responsibility as the tenant to test these detectors on a monthly basis. If you find any issues with one of the detectors, you should report it to your landlord immediately.   Landlord Responsibilities   Maintain the Exterior, Structure and Safety of the Property The landlord is responsible for ensuring that the property you are living in is structurally sound, and safe for habitation. If you have any concerns or find any issues with the property, always contact your landlord.   Fit Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms As previously mentioned, smoke detectors should be installed on each floor of a property, and if there is a wood or coal burning oven or fireplace available in the property, a carbon monoxide alarm should also be installed. If either of these is missing, you should request your landlord to have them put into the property.   Water, Electricity and Gas Issues If any issues arise with the water, electricity or gas supplies, you should report this to your landlord, and it will be their duty to send someone to the property to fix this.   Gas Safety Check As mentioned in the documents section of this article, your landlord should arrange for an annual gas safety check to be carried out and inform you of this, as it is likely that you will either need to be home to let someone in to carry out these checks, or the landlord themselves will need to be present during the check if you aren’t available.   Maintain Furniture and Appliances and Provide Repairs If your landlord has supplied you with any appliances or furniture, it will be their responsibility to maintain these items and ensure that they are functioning correctly. If one of these appliances breaks or malfunctions, ensure that you notify your landlord so that they can have it repaired or replaced. As well as the appliances and furniture supplied by the landlord, if any issues arise with the property itself, it is generally the landlord’s responsibility to have these issues repaired, unless otherwise specified in your tenancy agreement.   24 Hours’ Notice for Visits If, for any reason, the landlord needs to come to the property for repairs or any kind of visit, they are legally required to give you at least 24 hours’ notice prior to this. Even though the landlord owns the property, they aren’t allowed to enter the property without giving you the specified amount of notice.   Maintain Energy Efficiency As previously stated, your landlord will need to provide you with documentation outlining the energy efficiency of the property. The landlord will need to ensure that the minimum energy efficiency is in band E, unless the property is exempt from this.   Insuring the Property The landlord’s final responsibility is to insure the property to cover the costs of any damage caused by fire or flood.    Ending your Tenancy At the end of your tenancy, you’ll usually either wish to extend your tenancy, or leave the property. In both situations, there are steps that both you and your landlord will need to complete.   Extending your Tenancy If you decide you’d like to remain in the property, and your landlord is happy for you to do so, you will either need to sign a new fixed term contract, the way you did initially, or you could opt for a rolling tenancy. A rolling tenancy allows you to continue living in the property but with no fixed term date. In this situation, your tenancy agreement with the landlord should state how much notice you will need to provide the landlord with should you wish to leave, the notice period will generally be one month. It is also possible that if you extend your tenancy, your landlord may wish to increase the cost of rent, which they are entitled to do before you sign a new tenancy agreement, but they must inform you of this change and include it in the new agreement before you sign it.   If you Want to End your Tenancy If your landlord wishes to end your tenancy, they are legally required to give you proper notice, at least two months usually, and must have allowed any fixed term period of the tenancy to have expired. If you decide you want to end your tenancy early, you may be charged for this as you will be breaking your contract. It should stipulate in your tenancy agreement how much notice you need to provide your landlord with in this situation, but it is generally one month. The property will be inspected once yourself and your landlord have decided that you wish to end the tenancy agreement, this inspection will determine if any of your deposit will be deducted due to damages to the property. The gov.uk website recommends that you be present for this inspection. If you disagree with the outcome of an inspection, you can contact the relevant deposit protection scheme to appeal. Here are a few of the deposit protection schemes in place: Deposit Protection Service MyDeposits Tenancy Deposit Scheme You should also ensure that all your rent and bill payments are up to date prior to leaving, if they are left unpaid, it could have a negative impact on your credit rating and if you wish to obtain a reference from your landlord. During the process of vacating the property, make sure that you clean the property thoroughly, as well as removing all of your possessions, even if there are items you don’t intend to take to your new home with you, remove and dispose of any wanted belongings. If you leave any of your personal belongings in the property, the landlord is entitled to dispose of them after 14 days, though they must inform you that they intend to do this. Finally, ensure that you take meter readings, return any keys to the landlord, and provide your landlord with a forwarding address should they need to contact you or forward any post on to you after you have vacated the property.   Issues During or After your Tenancy Major issues can usually be avoided if you do your research whilst searching for a property to rent and before signing a tenancy agreement, however sometimes problems can arise during your tenancy that are beyond your control, and it is useful to know who to contact in those situations. It should be noted that if possible, it is always best to discuss any problems with your landlord or letting agency first, as often they can find a quick resolution to any worries or issues you may have.   Letting Agencies If you have any complaints about the letting agency you are dealing with, and the letting agency itself can’t resolve this for you, it is possible to make a complaint to the Independent Redress Scheme, and they should be able to better advise you.   Landlords If you find that you are having difficulties with your landlord that can’t be resolved by discussing the issue directly with them, you should report the issue to your local authority, you can find yours here. Examples of difficulties with your landlord are: Your landlord refusing to repair the property when the conditions are unsafe. If your landlord attempts to evict you without valid reason or without providing written notice as stipulated in your tenancy agreement. If your landlord unfairly retains your deposit at the end of your tenancy. If your landlord makes unannounced visits or harasses you (if you feel threatened or unsafe, it is recommended that you call 999).     Financial Difficulties Sometimes, circumstances beyond your control may prevent you from being able to afford the cost of your rent. It is vital to speak to your landlord as soon as possible in this situation, as they are likely to be more understanding if you are honest with them from the outset and may be able to offer you some help and advice. If the issue is potentially going to be a long term problem, it is wise to contact Citizens Advice or Shelter for further advice.   Relocation to the UK If you are an international doctor with plans to relocate to the UK and join the NHS, email your CV to [email protected] and we would love to help you on your journey to relocate to the UK. Are you a member of our Facebook group? When you join IMG Advisor, you join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs into the group every single day. We will also be on hand to answer all your relocation queries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 50 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS! Listen to BDI Resourcing on the go with the IMG Advisor Podcast! You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher and Buzzsprout. We have a number of episodes with tips and advice on relocating to the UK and the routes you can take to achieve this.   References Rla.org.uk. (2019). [online] Available at: https://www.rla.org.uk/documents/download.shtml?pid=3414&v=3cf1a0fb170ac7ad4569f80fba7bfe39 [Accessed 30 Dec. 2019]. GOV.UK. (2019). How to rent: the checklist for renting in England. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-rent/how-to-rent-the-checklist-for-renting-in-england [Accessed 30 Dec. 2019]. England, S., advice, H. and renting, P. (2019). How to end a fixed term tenancy early. [online] Shelter England. Available at: https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/private_renting/how_tenants_can_end_a_fixed_term_tenancy [Accessed 30 Dec. 2019].

The Royal College of Radiologists expects candidates attempting the FRCR Clinical Oncology examinations to have a broad knowledge and understanding of the management of patients with cancer. In this article, we will be explaining what you can expect from the Final FRCR Part A Clinical Oncology exam (also known as FRCR 2A), the costs associated, where you can sit the exam, and we will also provide some helpful study resources and tips to give you the best possible chance of passing.   How Much Does It Cost? As of writing this article, the current cost for the Final FRCR Part A examination is £343 for members of the Royal College of Radiologists and £404 for non-members.   When and Where Can I Sit the Exam? The examination can be sat in Singapore, Hong Kong and Kolkata – India and in London, Manchester and Edinburgh in the UK. Final FRCR Part A exams are held twice a year, usually in February and again in either August or September   Am I eligible to Sit the Exam? In order to be eligible, you will need to have passed the First FRCR Clinical Oncology exam.   Final FRCR Part A Exam Format The examination consists of two papers that have 120 questions. The questions will be multiple choice for both papers, in which answers will be labelled A-E, and you will need to choose what you believe is the most correct answer. You will have 3 hours to answer each paper. The papers will consist of questions about the following types of tumours, and each subject will feature the number of questions described:   Paper 1 Tumour Type Number of Questions Respiratory 24 Urology 24 Head and Neck 24 Skin 12 CNS 12 Gynaecology 24   Paper 2 Tumour Type Number of Questions Breast 24 Lower Gastrointestinal 24 Upper Gastrointestinal 24 Haematology 12 Miscellaneous (thyroid, sarcoma, unknown primary, regulations, palliative care) 38 Image Based 10   Equipment for the Exam For this examination, you will be expected to bring an HB pencil, an eraser and a pencil sharpener. Calculators will not be necessary for this exam.   Results After the exam, a list of successful candidates will be shared on the Royal College of Radiologists website. This list will only contain your candidate number, so your identity will remain protected. You will receive your results via email or post, and these will be sent out as soon as possible after the list of successful candidates has been posted. The email or letter will explain the level that was required in order to pass and information of your performance against this level. You will also be informed of the scores you received, and a breakdown of how you performed in each section.   Pass Rates The Royal College of Radiologists reported that in 2018, 48% of candidates passed the FRCR Part A exam. The number of non-UK trained candidates that passed were 26% and the pass rate for non-UK trained candidates taking the exam for the first time was 33%.   If You Don’t Pass If you don’t pass the examination, you have a total of six attempts at Part A. It can be discouraging if you fail, however this can be a useful opportunity to help you work on any areas that you struggled with in your previous attempt. Once you do pass, you will have three years from the date of the successful Part A examination to pass Part B. If you don’t pass Part B within those three years, and you still wish to complete FRCR, you will need to pass Part A again.   Revision Resources The best thing you can do to try and pass, whether you’re taking the test for the first time, or whether this is another attempt, is to prepare and to make use of the study resources available to you. The Royal College of Radiologists provides several useful resources to help candidates prepare for the Final FRCR Part A examination. They provide some sample questions, as well as exam instructions and an answer sheet. You can find those here: Sample SBA Questions Exam Instructions Candidate Reference Sheet Answer Sheet   Books Get Through Final FRCR 2A by Teck Yew Chin, Susan Cheng Shelmerdine, Akash Ganguly and Chinedum Anosike SBAs for the Final FRCR 2A (Oxford Specialty Training: Revision Texts) by Richard Linsday, Scott Gillespie, Rory Kelly, Raghuram Sathyanarayana, Nicholas Napier and Paul Burns Revision Notes for the Final FRCR Part A, Second Edition (Postgrad Exams) by Kshitij Mankad, Edward T D Hoey and Sahil Chhabda   Websites RXPG Online Revision Strategies Revision Tips   Facebook Groups FRCR 2A & 2B Clinical Oncology   Tips for Passing the Exam   Prepare Start preparing for the exam in advance – one of the best pieces of advice we can offer you is to start studying early, the more well acquainted you are with the types of material that might come up in the exam, the more likely you will be to pass!   Courses If you can find a suitable course, we would recommend taking it to better prepare you. Courses are usually either held face to face or online. These can be expensive but are also a particularly good resource and many doctors feel that they are worth the money. If you live in the UK, the Royal College of Radiologists shares preparation courses being held in UK hospitals, you can find those here.    Practice We highly recommend using the practice materials provided by the Royal College of Radiologists and the books we mentioned previously to help you prepare for the exam. If you can time yourself whilst you answer questions, it will give you a more accurate idea of what the real exam will be like on the day.   Familiarise Yourself with the Syllabus The Royal College of Radiologists recommends that you familiarise yourself with the Clinical Oncology syllabus and curriculum, as this is what you will be examined against. You can find the most up to date version of these here.   Relocation to the UK If you’re a clinical or medical oncologist who would like our support in securing an NHS post, email your CV to [email protected] and we can guide you on your journey to the UK. Are you a member of our Facebook group? When you join IMG Advisor, you will join a community of doctors all looking to relocate to the UK and join the NHS. We post a series of blogs and vlogs to the group every day. We will also be on hand to answer any relocation queries you may have. Subscribe to our YouTube channel! We have over 45 videos on everything you need to know about relocating to the UK and joining the NHS. Listen to BDI Resourcing on the go with IMG Advisor the Podcast. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher and Buzzsprout. We have a number of episodes with tips and advice on obtaining GMC Registration and securing an NHS job.   References Rcr.ac.uk. (2019). [online] Available at: https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/co2b_spring_2018_examiners_report.pdf [Accessed 30 Dec. 2019]. Rcr.ac.uk. (2019). [online] Available at: https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/co2a_candidate_guidance_notes.dec_2019.pdf [Accessed 24 Dec. 2019]. Rcr.ac.uk. (2019). Final FRCR Part A Examination | The Royal College of Radiologists. [online] Available at: https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-oncology/examinations/final-frcr-part-a-examination [Accessed 24 Dec. 2019].