NHS Forth Valley IMG Resources
Welcome to NHS Forth Valley
We are delighted to welcome international medical graduates. We hope our sim-based induction programme and FIRES Sessions (Forth valley IMG Regular Education and Support Sessions) throughout the year provide a strong basis for quickly settling in to working in the NHS.
We have a friendly group of IMGs who are keen to welcome new colleagues, share their own experiences, and smooth your journeys in the NHS.
Explore:
- NHS Forth Valley Overview
- NHS Forth Valley IMG Leads
- IMG Induction Programme
- Welcoming International Medical Graduates New to NHS Scotland (WINS)
- Welcome to UK Practice
- Peer Support Networks for IMGs
- NHS Forth Valley IMG Resources
- Trainers, Supervisors, Employers and Managers Training
- Trainers, Supervisors, Employers and Managers Resources
We want to hear from you
If you have any questions about the information in this resource, or you feel there is information which would be useful to add, please get in touch with the Centre for Workforce Supply at nes.cws@nhs.scot.
NHS Forth Valley Overview
NHS Forth Valley has a workforce of over 8,000, working together to improve the health and wellbeing of everyone living in Forth Valley. As one of the top places in the UK for medical education and training, with specialist facilities onsite, uncover your next career opportunity with NHS Forth Valley.
NHS Forth Valley IMG Leads
Meet the IMG Lead for NHS Forth Valley
Below you you'll find information about the individuals leading the International Medical Graduates (IMG) Doctors support across NHS Forth Valley.
| Name and role | Location | |
|---|---|---|
| Alison J Mackenzie, Consultant Physician | 📍IMG Lead for NHS Forth Valley | ✉️ Alison.mackenzie@nhs.scot |
Thank you to all colleagues who support IMGs working in Forth Valley and enable them to thrive in their careers while they make valuable contributions to the health of our patients.
IMG Induction Programme
Enhanced Induction Programme for International Medical Graduates (IMGs)
Our comprehensive induction programme supports IMGs in their transition to UK medical practice. It includes:
- Skills Development Sessions
- Thriving in UK Practice – delivered in collaboration with the GMC
- Four Simulation-Based Training Days covering:
- Multidisciplinary team working
- Communication skills
- Treatment escalation planning
- Managing the deteriorating patient
Programme Schedule:
- Delivered twice yearly – August and February
- Mandatory for all NES-employed IMGs (including GPSTs) and locally-employed IMGs with less than one year of NHS experience
- Optional for IMGs with more than one year of NHS service – all are welcome to attend
Welcoming International Medical Graduates New to NHS Scotland (WINS)
The Welcoming International Medical Graduates New to Scotland (WINS) programme is designed to help you settle into your new role with confidence. Through the programme, you'll learn more about NHS Scotland systems, workplace culture, professional expectations, and the practical aspects of working in a new healthcare environment.
You'll also have the opportunity to connect with other IMGs, share experiences, and build valuable professional networks.
One of the strengths of WINS is that Educational Supervisors (ESs) are also invited to attend. Their involvement helps foster strong, supportive trainer-trainee relationships and encourages a shared understanding of the trainee's development and wellbeing.
Look out for your invitation to attend a WINS face-to-face event or for further information, contact ejaz.farooqui@nhs.scot.
Welcome to UK Practice
Build your confidence and gain practical insight into UK medical practice by attending the GMC's free Welcome to UK Practice workshop. Explore real-world scenarios, learn about professional standards, and connect with other international medical graduates.
Find out more information at GMC’s Welcome to UK Practice online workshops.
FIRES Sessions
Forth Valley IMG Regular Education and Support Sessions
Delivered throughout the year, these sessions provide a strong basis for quickly settling in to working in the NHS.
A series of eight half-day sessions running from September to June. These sessions are designed to further support IMG development and should be requested as study leave via the usual channels.
Peer Support Networks for IMGs
WhatsApp Group for Forth Valley IMGs
Stay connected and share experiences with fellow International Medical Graduates in Forth Valley through our dedicated WhatsApp group.
The group is moderated by the current IMG Coordinator, Dr Hyacinth Faune
For details or to join, please contact 📧 hyacinth.faune@nhs.scot
Scottish IMG Buddy Scheme
The Scotland Deanery has a buddy scheme to support IMG doctors who are new to working in NHS Scotland. Buddies are doctors with experience of working in NHS Scotland and may offer support and guidance. The aim is to match doctors where possible with a buddy in the same location, region or specialty.
ℹ️ Find out more information on the Scotland Deanery website.
NHS Forth Valley IMG Resources
Forth Valley Medical Education website
Visit the IMG webpage on the Forth Valley Medical Education website for essential guidance and tips to help you settle into life and work in Forth Valley.
Trainers, Supervisors, Employers and Managers Training
To promote safe patient care and smooth integration, NHS Education for Scotland (NES), in collaboration with Directors of Medical Education, has developed the Softer Landing, Safer Care (SLSC) initiative. Backed by Health Board Medical Directors and the Scottish Government, this programme offers a two-week shadowing period for IMGs at the start of their post.
Trainers, Supervisors, Employers and Managers Resources
