Stage 3: Arrive and Orient
Stage 3: Arrive & Orient
Begin your NHS Scotland journey with confidence.
- WINS Programme
- Local Induction Resources
- Induction Standards
- First Connections
- Working Safely and confidently
Focus: Building early confidence, connections and establishing support networks.
Welcoming International Medical Graduates 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.
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 Pracitce
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: GMC’s Welcome to UK Practice online workshops
Local Induction Resources
Wherever you're working in Scotland, support is available. NHS Scotland is committed to providing support, supervision and induction to help you work safely, confidently and successfully in your new role.
Click on your Health Board to connect with local IMG leads, induction programmes, support resources, and professional networks.
Induction Standards
Design element
The NHS Scotland Induction Standards for IMGs have been developed by the Scottish Regions IMG Support Network Group (SING) for a comprehensive and appropriate induction and pastoral support for IMG’s new to NHS Scotland.
By providing adequate support, we can retain valuable talent, foster a positive work environment, and enhance the quality of healthcare services.
Link to NHS Scotland Induction Standards for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) | Turas | Learn
First Connections
Connect with Your IMG Lead
Need advice or support as you settle into NHS Scotland? Scotland's Health Boards have dedicated IMG Leads who understand the experience of moving to a new healthcare system. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and signpost you to local support, training, and resources.
Find your Health Board's IMG Lead
Join the Scottish IMG Buddy Scheme
Learn from someone who's been in your shoes. The Scottish IMG Buddy Scheme connects new IMG doctors with colleagues who have experience working in NHS Scotland. Your buddy can offer practical advise, support and reassurance. Find out more on Scottish IMG Buddy Scheme (SIBS) | Scotland Deanery
Access Clinical and Educational Support
Develop your skills and confidence with the right support. As a doctor working in NHS Scotland, you should have access to clinical supervision and educational support to help you practise safely, develop professionally, and progress in your career.
College support for International Medical Graduates (update link)
Working Safely and Confidently
Working in a new healthcare system can feel overwhelming. Explore answers to common questions that will help you work safely, confidently and effectively in NHS Scotland.
| Question | Why does it matter? |
|---|---|
| How do I refer patients and navigate local services? | Referral pathways and access to services may differ from those in your previous healthcare system. Understanding local pathways and multidisciplinary working helps ensure patients receive the right care at the right time. |
| How does NHS Scotland support patient safety and quality improvement? | Patient safety, quality improvement and professional accountability are central to NHS Scotland practice. Learn about clinical governance, incident reporting and your role in delivering safe, high-quality care. |
| How are DNACPR decisions managed in Scotland? | Approaches to DNACPR and advance care planning may differ from those used elsewhere. Understanding Scottish guidance will help you participate confidently in patient centred discussions and decision making. https://www.gov.scot/publications/attempt-cardiopulmonary-resuscitation-dnacpr-integrated-adult-policy-decision-making-communication/ |
| What do I need to know about GMC revalidation? | All licensed doctors must participate in revalidation to demonstrate they remain up to date and fit to practise. Understand what is required and how to prepare throughout your career. Find out more Revalidation for doctors: what you need to know - GMC |
