A guide to returning to general practice in Scotland

Who is R&IIP for?

The R&IIP is designed for GPs who hold a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) or an equivalent qualification and are registered on the GMC's GP Register.

It is specifically for:

• Returners—GPs who have been out of UK clinical General Practice for more than 2 years.
• International Inductees—Qualified GPs from overseas who need an induction into NHS Scotland systems.

If you've been out of practice for less than 2 years, you may not need the formal programme. However, you can still access support. Contact the team for advice - gpcareersadvice@nes.scot.nhs.uk. 

What does the programme offer?

Managed by NHS Education for Scotland (NES), the programme is built around your individual needs. Its aims are to provide a safe educational environment for you to update your clinical skills and demonstrate your readiness for the Performers' List.

A supervised placement

You'll be placed in an approved GP practice for a period of 2 to 6 months (full-time equivalent).

• You'll work as part of the team with your own clinical sessions.
• You'll start with longer appointment times, gradually building up to a standard pace as your confidence grows.

Financial support

You'll receive a salary while you are on your placement. Additionally, all indemnity costs for your placement work are covered by the programme.

Mentorship and assessment

An experienced GP in your host practice will act as your educational supervisor. They will provide mentorship, hold regular reviews, and provide the Educational Supervisors' Report needed to fully join the Performers' List.

How to apply for R&IIP

The application process is managed by the NES GP Careers Advice team.

• Step 1 - Review the programme—Read the full programme details to understand the commitment required. [Link: Check out the R&IIP information on the Scotland Deanery website]
• Step 2 - Contact NES—Send an expression of interest to gpcareersadvice@nes.scot.nhs.uk. A specialist advisor will discuss your career history and guide you on whether the R&IIP is the right route for your circumstances.
• Step 3 - Approval and funding—Your application needs 2 approvals:
  • Suitability agreement from the relevant regional associate adviser.
  • Funding agreement from the national lead.
• Step 4 - Join the Performers' List—Once approved for the scheme, you must apply to join your local NHS Scotland Health Board's Performers' List. Your application will be considered by the Medical Director of the relevant Health Board. View GP Returner Contacts on the Scotland Deanery website.
• Step 5 -  Find a Host Practice—Your Associate Advisor will approach potential training practices in your chosen health board area to arrange your placement.

Related content

The following organisations provide official information and support:

• NES—Manages the programme and applications. Read more about the R&IIP Programme.
• GP Jobs—Information about returning to General Practice in Scotland.
• RCGP—Offers free associate membership and learning resources for one year to all returners. Find out more about RCGP support for returners.
• Scottish Government—Learn more about the GP recruitment and retention action plan.