Visa Sponsorship Opportunity
We are pleased to offer a Certificate of Sponsorship for international medical professionals looking to relocate to the UK. This opportunity provides a pathway for qualified ophthalmologists to join our healthcare team while receiving valuable sponsorship support throughout the relocation process.
About the Role
We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Locum Consultant Ophthalmologist – Cataract Specialist to complete our supportive team covering North Cumbria. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ophthalmologist to make a significant impact in a region voted one of the best places to live in the UK.
Job Benefits
The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary ranging from £109,725 to £145,478 per year (pro rata), along with comprehensive benefits including a lease car (potentially), 27-day holiday scheme rising to 33 after 10 years, flexible working arrangements, and access to the NHS Pension scheme.
Relocation Support
As an international candidate, you will receive dedicated support throughout your relocation journey. Our team will assist with visa applications, provide guidance on UK medical registration, and offer advice on housing, schools, and settling into the local community. We understand that relocating to a new country can be challenging, and we’re committed to making your transition as smooth as possible.
North Cumbria: Your New Home
North Cumbria offers an exceptional quality of life with its stunning natural beauty, including the Lake District—one of the country’s most outstanding natural landscapes. The region provides excellent road, rail, and air communications, making travel convenient. Housing is relatively inexpensive compared to many UK areas, and there are outstanding state and private educational establishments for families.
Professional Development
We are committed to supporting your ongoing professional development. As part of one of the UK’s largest employers, you’ll have access to excellent opportunities for advancement, specialized training, and research initiatives. Our organization values continuous learning and provides the resources needed for you to thrive in your specialty.
About Our Organization
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust is ambitious about delivering outstanding hospital and health services to half a million people. Established on October 1, 2019, we’re creating a center of excellence in providing rural and remote healthcare across 15 main locations, employing over 6,500 staff members.
Our Core Values
We operate on five key principles: being clinically led, ensuring quality and safety are at the heart of everything we do, delivering a positive patient experience every time, creating a great place to work, and managing our resources effectively. As an organization, we’re committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects our community.
Responsibilities
The successful candidate will join a team of consultant ophthalmologists providing general ophthalmic services across North Cumbria, serving a population of approximately 360,000. You’ll develop innovative ophthalmic practices, help bridge the gap between acute hospital care, community services, and primary care, and contribute to our ‘whole system’ approach to delivering safe and effective modern eye care.
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
- FRCOphth or equivalent qualification
- Full GMC Registration
- Inclusion on the Specialist Register in Ophthalmology
- Ability to offer expert clinical opinions on a range of ophthalmology problems
- High standard of clinical skill and expertise in clinical Ophthalmology
- Experience in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate medical staff
Desirable Requirements
- Post-CCT fellowship in an applicable sub-specialty
- Experience in high-volume cataract surgery
- Experience of audit management
- Teaching of non-medical health professionals
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This position requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The cost of this check will be met by the successful candidate through salary deduction. Standard checks cost £27.40, while enhanced checks cost £55.40. These costs can be paid in installments over four months or as a one-off payment.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please submit your application through the NHS Jobs website. International candidates should ensure they include evidence of meeting all essential criteria in their supporting information. If sufficient applications are received, this position may close earlier than the advertised closing date of November 4, 2025.
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email and asked to log in to their Trac account to select an interview time. Interviews typically take place within two weeks of the closing date. Candidates using Hotmail accounts or with strict firewall settings should ensure they regularly check their junk mail folders for communications.
Additional Information for International Applicants
From April 6, 2017, skilled worker applicants applying for entry clearance into the UK must present criminal record certificates from each country where they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18) are also subject to this requirement.
Contact Information
For questions about this position or the sponsorship process, please contact Lucy Jackson, Deputy Service Manager, at [email protected] or call 07929823270. Our team is happy to provide additional information about the role, relocation support, and life in North Cumbria.
Privacy Notice
We handle all personal information in accordance with our privacy notice, which can be viewed here: North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust’s privacy notice (opens in a new tab).
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply via the NHS Jobs website. When applying, please ensure you:
- Complete all sections of the application form thoroughly
- Provide detailed evidence of meeting all essential criteria
- Include your current contact details, including an email address you check regularly
- Mention your interest in the sponsorship package if you require it
- Submit any required supporting documents, such as your CV and qualifications
Supporting Documents
The following supporting document is available for this position: ‘A-25-7476971 Locum Consultant Ophthalmologist – Cataract Sp.pdf (PDF, 512 KB)’. This document provides additional details about the role and requirements.
Employer Details
Company
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
Location
Cumberland Infirmary
Newtown Road
Carlisle
CA2 7HY
Website
https://www.ncic.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)
Application Deadline
The closing date is 04 November 2025
Essential Qualifications
High standard of clinical skill and expertise in clinical Ophthalmology
Desirable Qualifications
Experience in High Volume Cataract surgery
Essential Experience
FRCOphth or equivalent
Language Requirements
English language proficiency is required for this position.
Education Requirements
Relevant medical qualifications and specialist training in ophthalmology are required for this role.
Employment Type
Fixed term (12 months), Full-time position
Salary Information
£109,725 to £145,478 a year pro rata
Working Pattern
Full-time position with flexible working scheme available
Reference Number
262-A-25-7476971
