Boost for Refugee Doctors Programme

The Scottish Government has announced additional investment to help more refugee doctors living in Scotland return to practise medicine, supporting NHS Scotland's workforce.

The £190,023 nearly doubles investment in the Bridges Programmes' Refugee Doctors Programme this year. This will see the total number of doctors supported to obtain GMC registration by the Scottish Government since the programme began reach more than 100.

The Bridges programme helps support refugees who are qualified doctors attain General Medical Council (GMC) registration, a legal requirement to practice medicine in the UK.

The money will help expand casework support, establish a new Physician Network connecting refugee doctors with experienced NHS Scotland clinicians, and create a Progression Fund to help cover costs that can act as a barrier to qualifying.

The programme currently provides end-to-end support resulting in approximately 12 refugee doctors obtaining their GMC registration each year, with 86 refugee doctors currently progressing. Since 2017, the Scottish Government has provided over £1.6 million to the programme.

The announcement delivers on a commitment made by the First Minister to increase support for the Bridges Refugee Doctors Programme.

Health Secretary Angela Constance said:

"Scotland is home to many highly skilled internationally qualified doctors who fled conflict and persecution, and who want nothing more than to use their skills to help others.

“I am proud this funding will help remove the barriers that stand between them and a return to the profession they trained for, while strengthening our NHS workforce at the same time.”

Flutura Shala, Bridges Programmes CEO said:

“No doctor should have to leave behind a lifetime of learning and caring for others simply because they had to flee their home. This additional funding will make a real difference. It will allow us to provide more practical support, help remove financial barriers and connect refugee doctors with experienced NHS colleagues who can support them on their journey.

“For the doctors, this is about more than returning to work. It's about rebuilding their careers, regaining their professional identity and having the opportunity to put their knowledge and skills to use, caring for others once again.

“We are delighted that the Scottish Government continues to recognise the importance of this programme and the valuable contribution refugee doctors can make to Scotland’s NHS and communities.”

Background

The Bridges Programmes' Refugee Doctors Programme supports refugee medical professionals to achieve GMC registration and become employment ready for in the UK.

The additional £190,023 is on top of £198,000 already confirmed for this financial year.