NHS Tayside IMG Resources
Welcome to NHS Tayside
From our Senior Management and Executive Board, to our staff on the ground, NHS Tayside has always taken great pride in our diverse workforce. We recognise that IMGs are cornerstones of our workforce, and really value the unique strengths you bring.
The Health Board and our dedicated IMG Support team look forward to meeting you and helping you settle into your new roles both personally and professionally.
Explore:
- NHS Tayside Overview
- NHS Tayside IMG Leads
- IMG Induction Programme
- Welcoming International Medical Graduates New to NHS Scotland (WINS)
- Welcome to UK Practice
- Peer Support Networks for IMGs
- NHS Tayside IMG Resources
- Mentors, Managers and Supervisors Training
- Mentors, Managers and Supervisors 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 Tayside Overview
Valuing diversity, promoting equality, and supporting employees by providing flexible working, training, and career development, uncover your next career opportunity with NHS Tayside.
NHS Tayside IMG Leads
Meet the IMG Leads for NHS Tayside.
| Name | Role and location | |
|---|---|---|
| Dr Achyut Vall | 📍 Associate Director of Medical Education, NHS Tayside | ✉️ Achyut.Valluri2@nhs.scot |
| Dr Babar Akbar | 📍 Associate Director of Medical Education, NHS Taysid | ✉️ syedmbabar.akbar@nhs.scot |
Thank you for your invaluable work in helping our IMG colleagues settle into NHS Tayside and thrive in their roles. Your support is crucial and we look forward to helping you support them.
IMG Induction Programme
IMG Enhanced Induction Programme
Who Can Attend
Open to all International Medical Graduates (IMGs) joining NHS Tayside, including those in:
- Resident in Training posts
- Locally Employed Doctor roles
- Staff Grade, Associate Specialist, and Specialty Doctor positions
- Consultant roles
How to Join
You’ll receive an invitation from the Directorate of Medical Education or your Clinical Lead.
If you haven’t received notification at least four weeks before your start date, please contact the ADMEs listed above.
Attendance Requirements
Based on nationally agreed standards (SING Standards):
- Mandatory: Less than 6 months NHS experience
- Desirable: 6–12 months NHS experience and not previously attended
- Optional (and service-development): More than 12 months NHS experience
Programme Schedule
Held twice a year – in August and February, starting the second week after changeover (first Wednesday of the month).
Sessions typically run every Thursday for five weeks - exact dates, times, and venues will be confirmed via email.
One session will be the national WINS (Welcoming IMGs New to Scotland) day - exact dates, times, and venues will be confirmed via email.
Programme Content Includes:
- NHS structure
- Local pathways and protocols
- Communication and non-technical skills
- Career progression
- Reflection and portfolio building
- Immersive simulation
- GMC’s Thriving in UK Practice workshop (in-person)
- A welcome dinner to meet fellow IMGs
IMG VISTA Sessions – Ongoing Support
🗓️ When: Last Thursday of each month (excluding December and July)
📍 Where: Ninewells site
🕣 Time: 13:30 – 16:30
Attendance Criteria: Same as Enhanced Induction (dates should be requested as Study Leave)
Session Structure
- One-to-one check-in with ADMEs
- Guest seminars from the BMA, financial advisors, Medical Defence Union, Palliative Care, and Chaplaincy Services
- Simulation-based scenarios tailored to IMG needs
IMG Medical Registrar Readiness Pilot
Further details will be shared once confirmed. Please check back soon for updates.
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.
Peer Support Networks for IMGs
Scan the QR code below provided to join our general IMG WhatsApp group, open to all International Medical Graduates in Tayside.
This group is an open forum where you can ask questions, share answers, and connect socially with fellow IMGs.
IMG VISTA Sessions WhatsApp Group
Join our dedicated WhatsApp group for IMG VISTA Sessions to stay informed about monthly session dates, updates, and related information.
NHS Tayside BAME Network
We encourage you to become part of the NHS Tayside BAME Network.
📧 To join, please contact: tay.bamenetwork@nhs.scot
Connect with peers by joining the Scotland IMG Group Facebook group, hosted by NES This wider community connects IMGs across Scotland, offering a platform to share experiences, access resources, and stay informed about national initiatives and opportunities relevant to IMG doctors.
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 Tayside IMG Resources
NHS Tayside Resident Doctor's Handbook
Browse the NHS Tayside Resident Doctor Handbook. This comprehensive resource offers valuable information for all new doctors joining the area, covering both personal and professional aspects of life. A dedicated section is included specifically for International Medical Graduates (IMGs).
Pre-Arrival Resources for IMGs
This resource is designed to help International Medical Graduates prepare for their move and working in NHS Tayside.
Watch this short video from IMG support team in Tayside. It provides an overview of the NHS Tayside IMG Support Programme.
Mentors, Managers and Supervisors Training
