COVID-19 FAQs: ISTP post

Please see advice below.

• I have already been inteviewed and accepted onto the ISTP. When can I expect to be placed into a post?

  We will not be making any new placements before October 2020. This may change but the current situation in the UK is that all surgical departments within the NHS are focused on responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and caring for patients.  We will keep you updated if our timescales change.

• Is it okay to submit the ISTP application now?

  ISTP is currently closed to new applications. Applications that were submitted before the programme closed will be processed as usual however, the process is taking longer than usual and applicants may experience delays.  In addition, no placements will start before October 2020.

• I have applied for the ISTP and submitted all my documentation. When will the interviews take place?

  We will contact you if you have been shortlisted for interview. At present, our application process is taking longer than usual as all surgical departments within the NHS are focused on responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and caring for patients. Please therefore note that it is unlikely that you will be contacted before June 2020 but we will keep all applicants updated as the situation changes.

• I understand that ISTP applications will be processed as usual however, there will be delays due to COVID-19. Can you advise how long should I can expect the delays will last for?

  Unfortunately, we are unable to provide exact timescales as the COVID-19 situation changes daily.  The timescales that we have provided are provisional and are dependent upon UK Government advice and the current global situation in respect of COVID-19.

• I was supposed to fly to the UK next month, but my country is in lockdown due to COVID-19. Can I travel to the UK and start my placement once the situation calms down?

  If you are unable to start your placement due to current travel restrictions, you should remain in touch and keep us and the UK Trust updated on any changes regarding your ability to travel to the UK. We will work with you and the UK Trust to postpone your post start date if necessary, and provide support for any changes that may be required to your visa.

• I have already been placed into a post that is due to start next month (April) and I have completed my GMC registration and Tier 5 visa. Is my start date likely to be postponed due to COVID-19?

  Yes.  Start dates between March - August are likely to be postponed, unless you are able to travel to the UK and the employing Trust has confirmed that they can accommodate you, as well as provide a sufficient induction period.