Consultant Rheumatologist with certificate of sponsorship to the UK

Visa Note

While this position offers a certificate of sponsorship for eligible international candidates, applicants must verify their specific visa eligibility with the employer before applying. The certificate of sponsorship does not guarantee visa approval, and applicants should confirm all visa requirements and associated costs with the hiring manager.

Job Overview

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a passionate and forward-thinking Consultant Rheumatologist to join our dynamic and supportive team. This is an excellent opportunity for international medical professionals to make a real impact in the Somerset community while developing their career within the UK’s National Health Service. The Trust offers a certificate of sponsorship for eligible candidates, making this an attractive option for those considering relocating to the UK.

About the Role

As a Consultant Rheumatologist, you will be instrumental in shaping our expanding rheumatology services in Somerset. This role can be based at either Yeovil District Hospital or Musgrove Park Hospital, providing flexibility in location while collaborating with an expanding multidisciplinary team across the county. The position is available as full-time (10 PAs), but we embrace flexibility and can discuss tailoring the role to suit both you and the needs of the service.

Key Responsibilities

Your main duties will include delivering expert rheumatology diagnosis, treatment, and care to patients. You will run outpatient clinics and support our specialist nursing team, as well as provide inpatient care and collaborate with fellow consultants on ward referrals. Working closely with the multidisciplinary team will be essential to enhancing both in-house and countywide services. Additionally, you will engage in service development, quality improvement, and clinical leadership, providing cover for colleagues and managing emergencies as needed.

Essential Qualifications

To be considered for this position, you must have full GMC registration and a licence to practice at the time of applying. You should also hold a CCST in Rheumatology (or be within six months of award) and possess an MRCP qualification. These requirements ensure that all candidates meet the professional standards necessary for practicing as a rheumatologist in the UK.

Desirable Qualifications

While not essential, additional qualifications or experience in specific rheumatology sub-specialties would be advantageous. The Trust values candidates who demonstrate continuous professional development and have experience in teaching or research within the field of rheumatology.

Essential Experience

Essential experience for this role includes full GMC registration and a licence to practice at the time of applying. You should have substantial experience in rheumatology practice, including both outpatient and inpatient settings. Experience working within a multidisciplinary team and involvement in service development would also be highly valued.

Compensation and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary ranging from £109,725 to £145,478 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications. As an NHS employee, you will receive access to the generous NHS pension scheme, providing long-term financial security. The Trust also offers a generous annual leave allowance to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Working Arrangements

This permanent position is available on both full-time and part-time bases, allowing for flexibility in your working pattern. The standard working week is typically 10 programmed activities (PAs), but we are open to discussing arrangements that suit both your needs and the requirements of the service. Flexible working options are available to help you balance your professional and personal commitments.

About Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer flexible working options to help you maintain work-life balance, along with numerous opportunities for career development to help you grow and achieve your potential.

Additional Employee Benefits

As an employee of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, you will gain access to our Blue Light Card, which unlocks exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work. We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Life in Somerset

Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines. The region is home to vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter, which are just a short drive away, with London only two hours by train. Somerset provides an excellent quality of life with affordable housing compared to many other parts of the country.

Relocation Support

We understand that relocating to a new country can be challenging, and we are committed to supporting international staff throughout the transition process. While specific relocation packages may vary, we can provide information on housing options, local schools, and other essential services to help you and your family settle into life in Somerset.

Professional Development

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is committed to the ongoing professional development of its staff. As a Consultant Rheumatologist, you will have access to various training opportunities, conferences, and educational programs to keep your skills up-to-date and support your career progression within the NHS.

Career Progression

The NHS offers clear pathways for career progression, and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is no exception. This role provides an excellent foundation for further development, with opportunities to take on leadership positions, engage in research, or specialize in particular areas of rheumatology as your career progresses.

Application Requirements

All applicants must hold the essential qualifications outlined in this advertisement. When completing your application, please ensure your supporting statement clearly demonstrates how your experience and skills meet the criteria specified in the job description and person specification. Applications without a tailored supporting statement may not be considered.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, which means it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. All successful applicants will be required to undergo this check.

Certificate of Sponsorship Details

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. The Trust can provide a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible candidates. From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants have had to present criminal record certificates from each country they have resided in continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.

UK Registration Requirements

Applicants must have current UK professional registration to be considered for this position. For further information regarding UK professional registration requirements, please see the NHS Careers website dedicated to overseas health professionals. The Trust can provide guidance on the registration process as part of our support for international candidates.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please complete your application via the NHS Jobs website. The application process requires you to submit a detailed supporting statement that addresses all the criteria outlined in the job description and person specification. International applicants should also include information regarding their visa status and requirements for sponsorship.

Application Checklist for International Candidates

Before applying, international candidates should verify their eligibility with the employer by confirming: their specific visa category requirements, necessary professional qualifications for UK practice, required language proficiency (IELTS/OET if applicable), and any additional documentation needed for the sponsorship process. Applicants should ensure all required documents, including proof of qualifications and professional references, are prepared in advance.

Contact Information

For questions about the job, particularly regarding sponsorship eligibility or the application process, please contact Charlotte Saunders (Hiring Manager) at charlotte.saunders@somersetft.nhs.uk. While a phone number is not provided, email inquiries will be responded to promptly. Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is committed to supporting international applicants through the recruitment and sponsorship process.

Employer Details

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is the employer for this position, with the primary location being Yeovil District Hospital at Higher Kingston, Yeovil, Somerset, BA21 4AT. Alternative placement is available at Musgrove Park Hospital, Musgrove Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5DA. For more information about the Trust, please visit their website at https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/.

Privacy Notice

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is committed to protecting your personal information. For detailed information on how your data will be used during the recruitment process, please refer to the Trust’s privacy notice available on their website. All personal information collected will be handled in accordance with data protection legislation.