On 25 October, the BMJ published an article, “Trusts are accused of using foreign doctors as ‘cheap labour’ in fellowship schemes”.
It is important to clarify that psychiatry trainees recruited through the RCPsych Medical Training Initiative (MTI) are not part of the cohort of doctors reported on in the article.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists has participated in the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC) MTI since 2013. Under the RCPsych MTI process, successful trainees are employed directly by mental health providers at CT3 level. Our guidance makes it clear that they should be offered a contract and salary equivalent to other CT3 trainees. Employment terms and conditions, including paternity pay or leave, and access to training opportunities should also be equivalent to other CT3 trainees.
RCPsych MTI trainees cannot, and should not, be used to fill non-training posts. We ensure all MTI employers are aware that MTI trainees must be given an educational contract or other appropriate agreed training programme and support.
MTI employers are encouraged to offer pastoral support and professional advice to their MTI trainees as they relocate to the UK. This could include support with finding accommodation, providing information about local schools and services, links to local community groups and other International Medical Graduates (IMGs), and support with opening a UK based bank account.
MTI employers are also strongly advised to provide an appropriate induction programme and preparation for performing on-call duties.
Additionally, the College offers all MTI trainees an induction session and a mentor outside of their employment. Our Psychiatrists' Support Service is readily available to our MTI trainees to provide personal and work-related help and support. RCPsych also run an annual survey to identify any improvements for future MTI trainees. Anyone who would like more information on the RCPsych MTI scheme can contact mti@rcpsych.ac.uk or visit our MTI section.
For further information, please contact:
- Email: press@rcpsych.ac.uk
- Twitter: @rcpsych
- Out-of-hours contact number: 07860 755896