Salaried GP with certificate of sponsorship to the UK
Visa Information
This position is eligible for a Certificate of Sponsorship for skilled workers wishing to work in the UK. However, even with sponsorship offered, applicants must verify their eligibility directly with the employer. The final decision on sponsorship will depend on meeting specific UK visa requirements and the employer’s assessment of your qualifications and experience.
International applicants should be aware that working as a GP in the UK requires specific registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) and meeting English language proficiency standards. The employer will provide guidance on the sponsorship process, but applicants are responsible for ensuring they meet all immigration requirements.
Job Overview
Willington Medical Group, a semi-rural practice situated 7 miles west of Durham City and close to Durham Dales, is seeking a Salaried General Practitioner to join their team. The practice has a patient population of approximately 9,250 with personal lists for each GP, striving to provide continuity of care while balancing with urgent demands in primary care.
The practice consists of 6 GP Partners (4.4 FTE) and is supported by an excellent clinical team including 4 Nurse Practitioners/Advanced Clinical Practitioners, 3 Practice Nurses, Health Care Assistants, Pharmacists, and a dedicated administration team. They consistently achieve high results in QOF/Enhanced Services and maintain a culture of openness and continuous learning.
Located in County Durham, Willington offers a semi-rural setting with access to both countryside amenities and proximity to Durham City. The practice operates from purpose-built premises on a single site and uses a paper-light system with SystmOne.
Key Details
The salary for this position is negotiable and will be based on experience, in line with BMA contractual rates. This means your compensation will be competitive and reflective of your qualifications and years of practice as a General Practitioner.
This is a part-time position requiring 4 sessions per week, offering flexibility for those seeking a better work-life balance. The working pattern can be discussed during the application process to accommodate the successful candidate’s needs where possible.
The contract is a fixed-term agreement lasting 14 months, commencing in April 2026 (or sooner if available). The practice is flexible about considering a salaried GP with a view to potential partnership in the future.
Reference number for this position is I9869-2631, and the closing date for applications is 20 February 2026. Early applications are encouraged as the position may be filled before the closing date if a suitable candidate is found.
Main Duties
The successful candidate will undertake all duties associated with the role of a General Practitioner required by the GMS contract. This includes conducting surgery consultations, handling telephone consultations and queries, visiting patients at their homes, and checking and signing repeat prescriptions and related paperwork.
You will be expected to comply with all objectives of the GMS Contract and support the development of Practice clinical procedures and protocols. Accurate and timely input of patient data onto the clinical system is essential, along with carrying out clinical audits as appropriate.
The post-holder will complete reports for various organizations including solicitors, insurance companies, the DVLA, and other relevant bodies. You will liaise with other healthcare professionals when required and maintain patient confidentiality while upholding the integrity of the patient-practice relationship.
Active participation in Practice meetings is expected, along with supporting the development and compliance of the Practice Health and Safety policy. You will engage in the GP appraisal scheme, attend Practice training sessions whenever possible, and maintain medical currency aligned with your Personal Development Plan.
The post includes a share of weekly on-call duties. You will contribute to the overall development and improvement of the Practice while working safely at all times in accordance with legislative requirements and Practice Policy and Procedures.
Person Specification
Essential qualifications include current GMC registration and an understanding of QOF (Quality and Outcomes Framework). Knowledge of patient choice principles is also essential. These qualifications demonstrate your ability to meet the core requirements of general practice in the UK.
Desirable qualifications include additional certifications such as Family Planning, MRCGP, DRCOG, and Minor Surgery. While not mandatory, these qualifications may enhance your application and provide additional skills beneficial to the practice.
Essential experience includes IT skills (MS Office, Internet and clinical/online tools), interpersonal skills, time management abilities, use of Read Codes, and clinical audit experience. These competencies are crucial for effective practice in a modern healthcare environment.
Desirable experience includes minor surgery skills and experience working with SystmOne, the practice’s electronic patient record system. These additional skills would be beneficial in enhancing the services offered by the practice.
Essential skills encompass planning and organizing abilities, performing under pressure, adaptability, using initiative, and effective team working. These behavioral competencies are crucial for thriving in the dynamic environment of a busy GP practice.
Essential knowledge requirements include an understanding of QOF and patient choice principles. These knowledge areas are fundamental to delivering high-quality patient care within the UK’s primary care framework.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, you must submit your application through the NHS Jobs website. The application process involves creating an account on the platform, searching for this vacancy using the reference number I9869-2631, and completing the online application form.
International applicants should prepare several key documents before applying: a detailed CV highlighting your medical qualifications and experience, proof of GMC registration (or evidence of the application process), evidence of English language proficiency, and details of any previous UK work experience if applicable.
For questions about the position, contact Dan Turner, Practice Manager, via email at dan.turner2@nhs.net. Informal visits to the practice are welcome and can be arranged by contacting the practice directly. This provides an opportunity to see the working environment and discuss the position in more detail.
The application deadline is 20 February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which may be conducted in person or via video link for international applicants. The selection process will include assessment of clinical skills, knowledge of UK general practice, and suitability for the practice’s team environment.
About the Practice
Willington Medical Group serves a patient population of approximately 9,250 patients, with each GP having personal lists to ensure continuity of care. The practice has 6 GP Partners operating at 4.4 full-time equivalent, supported by a comprehensive team including 4 Nurse Practitioners/Advanced Clinical Practitioners, 3 Practice Nurses, Health Care Assistants, Pharmacists, and an administration team.
The practice consistently achieves high results in QOF/Enhanced Services, demonstrating commitment to quality care. They maintain a culture of openness, continuous learning, and professional development. Partners at the practice are actively involved in local healthcare networks, with Dr. Wilmer serving as Wear Valley PCN Clinical Director.
Facilities include purpose-built premises on a single site with paper-light operations using SystmOne. Parking is available on site, and the practice is well-equipped to deliver comprehensive primary care services. The practice actively engages in local primary care networks and collaborates with various healthcare providers.
Additional Information
This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check as required by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. All offers of employment will be conditional upon satisfactory disclosure of any previous criminal convictions.
Applicants must have current UK professional registration with the General Medical Council. For further information on registration requirements for international medical graduates, please refer to the NHS Careers website for overseas health professionals.
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants applying for entry clearance into the UK must present criminal record certificates from each country where they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants over 18 years are also subject to this requirement.
The practice is committed to equality and diversity in employment and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age. Reasonable adjustments will be made for candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.