Visa Note
While this employer offers a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible international candidates, applicants must verify their specific visa eligibility requirements directly with the employer. The Certificate of Sponsorship alone does not guarantee visa approval – all immigration requirements must be satisfied.
Job Overview
Make a Real Impact on Stroke Care Across Somerset. We are excited to invite applications for a Consultant Stroke Physician to join our progressive and expanding stroke team at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust. This is a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping a Somerset-wide, high-performing stroke service while enjoying an exceptional work-life balance in one of the UK’s most desirable regions.
About the Position
From April 2026, our reconfigured pathway will launch a Somerset Hyperacute Stroke Unit (HASU) at Musgrove Park Hospital, complemented by acute stroke units at both Musgrove Park and Yeovil District Hospitals. You will play a vital role in driving forward our system-wide improvements in stroke care and clinical outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Your main duties will include providing high-quality stroke diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care across acute, hyperacute, and rehabilitation pathways. You’ll lead HASU ward rounds, thrombolysis assessment and rapid-access TIA clinics (including 1-in-8 weekend rota).
Detailed Responsibilities
You will contribute to stroke follow-up clinics, outpatient services, and community-based stroke recovery units. The role involves playing an active part in education, research, and clinical governance within the department, as well as supervising junior medical staff and supporting medical student training.
Working Environment
This position requires collaboration across sites at Musgrove Park Hospital (base) and Yeovil District Hospital. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking Trust recently unified under a single Somerset-wide service, offering flexible working arrangements and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Why Join Us
We value diversity, inclusion, and a supportive working culture. Whether you’re new to consultancy or seeking a fresh challenge, we’ll support your growth, offer mentorship, and provide a structured path to achieving your goals.
Benefits of Joining Our Team
Enjoy flexible working, multidisciplinary collaboration, and strong support for career development. There is a relocation package available to candidates applying for a substantive position, of up to a maximum of £7,700 (terms and conditions apply).
Research and Development
Be part of a research-active department contributing to national stroke studies. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including upgraded CT/MRI imaging, day surgery, and intensive care units.
Location Benefits
Live and work in stunning Somerset, surrounded by Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, thriving market towns, great schools, and fast links to Bristol, Bath, Exeter, and London. This region offers an exceptional quality of life with excellent transport connections.
Company Information
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is the first integrated provider of acute, community, mental health, and primary care services in the country. We are proud to offer outstanding care across Somerset, with dedicated teams leading transformation in healthcare delivery.
Employment Details
This is a permanent, full-time position with a salary ranging from £109,725 to £145,478 per year, under the Hospital medical and dental staff pay scheme at the Consultant grade.
Location
The position is based at Musgrove Park Hospital, Musgrove Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5DA. You’ll be working across multiple sites including Yeovil District Hospital.
Qualifications Required
Essential qualifications include MBBS and MRCP or equivalent, Full GMC Registration with a license to practice, and inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within 6 months of achieving CCT in General/Internal Medicine or Stroke.
Desirable Qualifications
A higher degree is desirable for this position. Candidates with additional qualifications beyond the essential requirements may be given preference during the selection process.
Experience Requirements
You must have broad clinical experience in stroke and general medicine, plus experience in a special interest that will complement those existing in the department. Experience at locum consultant level is desirable.
Essential Skills
The role requires willingness and ability to fulfil the key elements of the job description, ability to cope with the demands of a DGH based consultant, and ability to lead and develop the service. You must also be able to develop effective working relationships on an individual, multiprofessional and team basis with all levels.
Personal Qualities
Strong communication skills are essential, along with an understanding of clinical governance and the individual responsibilities it implies. You should be able to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.
Desirable Skills
Knowledge of multidisciplinary clinical audit principles and evidence of direct involvement in 2 specific audits in the last 18 months is desirable. Similarly, knowledge of principles of research and evidence of involvement in a research project in the last 2 years is valued.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website. The closing date for applications is 29 October 2025. For questions about the job, contact Claire Vincent (Hiring Manager) at [email protected].
International Applicant Guidance
If you are an international applicant, please ensure you have verified your eligibility to work in the UK before applying. This includes confirming that you meet the GMC registration requirements and any visa/immigration criteria. The employer offers a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible candidates, but this must be applied for through the proper channels.
Required Documents for International Applicants
When applying, be prepared to provide evidence of your medical qualifications, GMC registration (or confirmation of application), proof of English language proficiency, and any required visa documentation. From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants 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.
Next Steps
If you are selected for an interview, you may be asked to provide additional documentation and participate in a practical assessment. The interview process will evaluate both your clinical expertise and your ability to work within the UK healthcare system.
Support for Relocation
The Trust offers a relocation package for successful candidates of up to £7,700 (terms and conditions apply). This assistance can help with moving costs and settling into the UK. Additional support may be available for international candidates through our HR department.
Contact Information
For more information about this position or the relocation process, please contact Claire Vincent (Hiring Manager) at [email protected]. You can also visit the employer’s website at https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/ for additional information about the Trust and the region.
Privacy Notice
Please be aware that your application data will be processed in accordance with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s privacy policy. You can view their full privacy notice at https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/about-us/about-us/how-we-manage-your-information/privacy-and-fair-collection-policy/.
