Flexible working for doctors

The Flexible Careers Scheme (FCS) was developed as part of the Improving Working Lives for Doctors initiative. The scheme helps doctors maintain their careers by providing more centrally funded opportunities to work part time and have temporary career breaks. The Flexible Careers Scheme funds doctors who are able to work up to 49% of full time. In each case the scheme is adapted to individual circumstances and provides sufficient medical/clinical practice for revalidation purposes. The scheme helps doctors in the training grades, career grade doctors, returners and doctors nearing retirement. Some of the benefits of the scheme include: central funding to pump-prime the creation of more flexible part-time work arrangements including annualised hours and job shares; a fixed annual amount paid to the doctor to contribute towards professional expenses; access to the NHS pension scheme and to the same employment rights as other colleagues; and an exit strategy for moving on after being on the FCS. For further information or to apply to join, please contact NHS Professionals (Tel: 0845 60 60 345).