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Less than full-time training in psychiatry

Navigating the training pathway can often require flexibility and support. That’s where less than full-time (LTFT) training comes in. It can help you balance your professional development with life outside of postgraduate psychiatry training.

What is LTFT training?

LTFT training is a structured GMC-approved education pathway. It allows you to continue your postgraduate psychiatry training at a reduced percentage of full-time hours. 

NHS Education for Scotland (NES) fully supports flexible training options. LTFT training is an accessible option, and many resident doctors train at 60 to 80% of full-time hours. 

You’ll still rotate through different posts, attend teaching sessions, and participate in on-call rotas. Your hours and responsibilities will be adjusted accordingly. You’ll also meet all the psychiatry curriculum requirements and competencies to achieve your CCT, just on a timescale that suits you.

This flexible approach to postgraduate training is about creating a sustainable career with a healthy work-life balance. It will help you shape your training journey so you can thrive both professionally and personally.

What are the benefits of LTFT training?

LTFT training has lots of benefits, so you can plan your postgraduate psychiatry training around your needs and responsibilities, such as:

  • caring responsibilities for children, elderly relatives, or dependants
  • personal health needs or disabilities
  • balancing your training with professional development opportunities, including research, leadership roles, or a portfolio career
  • pursue opportunities outside medicine, such as high-level sports training, further academic qualifications, or religious commitments
  • prioritising your personal wellbeing to achieve a healthy work-life balance and great training experience

LTFT training can help you to reduce burnout and enhance your physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Are there any downsides to LTFT training?

While there are many benefits to training LTFT, it is not without its challenges. In addition to the additional length of training, it is important to consider the financial implications of reducing your working hours.

Aligning the following can be challenging:

  • non-working days with on-call rotas
  • teaching timetables
  • team meetings
  • other development opportunities 

Renegotiating non-working days at each placement rotation may also be necessary.

It is important to be organised and plan ahead so that you can meet your goals for each placement. This will also help you fulfil other requirements, such as engagement with quality improvement projects and psychotherapy competencies.

How to apply for LTFT training
Psychiatry team meeting

How to apply for LTFT training

Applying for LTFT training requires careful planning and open communication. The process is managed by NES, and adherence to the Scotland Deanery policies is essential:

  1. Early discussion—If you’re thinking about LTFT training, speak to your educational supervisor and training programme director. They can provide initial advice and help you understand the impact on your training timeline.
  2. Submit your application—When completing the form, you’ll need to state your reason for applying, the proposed percentage of full-time work, and your start date. Gather any supporting documentation, such as medical certificates and childcare arrangements.
  3. Scotland Deanery review and approval—Your application will be reviewed by the deanery team and the service to make sure it aligns with training regulations and service needs. If approved, your LTFT status will be formally recognised and your training schedule adjusted. Please remember to leave enough notice, usually 3 to 6 months.
View LTFT application form

Support for LTFT resident doctors

NES and local training teams provide excellent support for LTFT resident doctors:

  • Dedicated LTFT leads—The Scotland Deanery has dedicated leads or administrators for LTFT training who can offer expert advice.
  • Peer support—Connect with other resident doctors who are already training LTFT to share experiences and get advice.
  • Flexible working policies—NHS Scotland’s policies accommodate flexible working where possible, supporting resident doctors in achieving a great work-life balance.

LTFT training can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling career in psychiatry. Explore whether LTFT training is the right option for you.

Published: 29/07/2025

Last updated: 31/07/2025

Part of: Work with us

Topic: Psychiatry jobs Scotland

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