Background
For international doctors starting in the UK it is not only daunting but also a complete life changing experience. Before they arrive, they have been preparing for months for this opportunity studying for examinations for entry to the GMC. This often means they leave their jobs in their home countries in order to concentrate on moving to a new country months prior to obtaining a post in the UK. Lead-it most importantly gives the new recruits a UK ‘family’ group. The admin team are always quick to respond to questions and queries they have from day one.
On arrival to the University Hospitals of Leicester, the team operate an open door policy and provide pastoral care from a home sick shoulder to cry on and practicalities such as arranging bank accounts and registering with a GP. The staff have also helped with the buying of cars, renting houses and just getting a new group of staff together to develop friendships for peer support. We have developed the peer support approach further, with ‘buddy’ allocations so someone who has been there before can answer those important questions (no question is a silly one).
The International Medical Graduates Experiences
Have a look at this great LEAD-it video here - https://youtu.be/_-Cja8HRrJY
Dr J Tamber "it is like going from 0 to 100 in one day especially joining a busy emergency department".
Dr Ejemmen Ejele "I want to thank you for the opportunity you have given me to become a member of the NHS and the staff of this Emergency Department which I have grown to love, and have learnt a lot making me a better clinician".
Dr Enrique Torres "A warm welcome and feeling that everyone wanted to make me understand how the work at the Leicester Royal Infirmary was and to make me feel comfortable during my shifts . Personal advice from my supervisor was extremely useful. The best thing was the team in ED . My medical peers, consultants, nurses, the HCA’s, Porters and Admin Team were all of them absolutely amazing on their greetings to foreign workers".
Dr Rama Subrahmanyam "It is indeed a great experience coming from India and working in the UK . The recruitment process was extremely smooth and comfortable. The unique aspect was a homely atmosphere and even thought the cultural and work patterns were entirely different there was enough space and encouragement to gel into the new system. I do recommend my colleagues and juniors to join LEAD-it"
Key Messages
The important element is the 2 way communication between the LEAD-it team and the International Medical Graduates ( IMG’s).
The programme has grown and developed listening to the IMG’s based on the feedback and also developing champions who help to evolve and enhance the programme ensuring it never stands still.
LEAD-it does what we say we will. Dr Sobia Malik "this was my first NHS job and I was a bit scared ... the work atmosphere , seniors , colleagues have been wonderful they help you, guide you in the best possible way . I’m learning and that’s exactly what I wanted I’m progressing as a better doctor to help patients in a better way and that’s the aim of it"
LEAD-it has been shortlisted for a HSJ award
You can follow lead it on twitter - @LEADit_