FAQ
Q: I’ve heard that it’s difficult to get on the Stockport scheme as it’s very popular – is it worth putting Stockport as my first choice, or would I be better applying elsewhere?
A: What can we say?! Stockport has a long-established excellent reputation for GP training, based on its day release course and its wide variety of practices and GP Trainers. Over the years we have welcomed Registrars from all over the country (and abroad), and have accommodated a wide range of training requirements. We can sometimes increase the number of training places if we have “too many” good candidates, as trainers planning to take sabbatical leave may postpone this if demand is heavy in any given year. So whether you are looking for a traditional Registrar year, or have particular training needs, Stockport could be right for you. Please contact any of us we will try our best to help
Q: I don’t know Stockport very well – how can I find out whether it’s for me?
A: There’s something for everyone in Stockport – click on the links to see what we mean. Once you’ve had a look at the website, please feel free to contact practices which interest you; we will be delighted to show you round and answer your questions.
Q: I’m a bit worried about relocating for just a year. What are the chances of getting a permanent GP job in Stockport when I have finished my training?
A: Very good. Around half the current GP Trainers actually trained in Stockport themselves, and many recent GP Registrars have stayed local, either as partners, or working as locums/salaried doctors (including GP retainees and flexible GPs). Stockport is a great place to live, and the high standard of GP care across the town adds to job satisfaction.
Q: I live quite a long way from Stockport and don’t want to relocate. Would I still be considered for a place on the Stockport scheme?
A: Although there are advantages to living locally, Stockport GP Registrars often travel long distances from all over Greater Manchester (and beyond!) in order to work at their chosen practices. Good practice libraries and internet connections make it possible to study during the day instead of in the evenings. Stockport has excellent motorway links, and now that Out-Of-Hours training is more predictable (see below), commuting has become much more practical.
Q: What Out-of-Hours training will I get in Stockport?
A: Stockport GPs are rightly proud of the care provided by their Co-Operative which has now joined neighbouring co-operatives to form Mastercall, covering over half a million patients. (http://www.mastercall.org.uk/).
All Stockport Registrars gain their OOH experience by working on a one-to-one basis with their own or specially appointed supervising GPs/Trainers; videotaping and voice recording provide added training opportunities. The commitment of around one three-hour evening session per month meets the new COGPED regulations. You will observe and then participate in telephone, face-to-face and domiciliary consultations, so that you will become competent and confident in this challenging area of practice.
Q: How much study leave will I be entitled to during my Registrar year?
A: You are entitled to 30 days’ annual study leave during which you are expected to attend the Stockport Day Release Course. Stockport Trainers have agreed that Registrars may have up to five additional discretionary study days for other courses, examination days and so on.
Q: How much help will Stockport offer me in preparing to take the MRGP?
A: All Stockport registrars are encouraged to sit the MRCGP, and its modular content allows you to be flexible about the timing of the various parts of the exam. The day release course, your Trainer and the peer support of the registrar group gives the exam in Stockport an excellant pass rate; there is also a commercially-run MRCGP preparation day that you can attend. The Registrars on the DRC organise their own very effective study groups/journal clubs, and the GP Trainers run an annual “mock MRCGP orals” evening to help you polish your viva skills.
Q: What if I want to start a family during my Registrar year?
A: You will be covered by employment law regarding maternity/paternity/parental leave; you will probably need to extend your GP Training. Contact the Deanery for more advice.
Q: My partner and I both work, and share childcare and the school run – would this be a problem in Stockport?
A: Many practices are able to adjust their Registrars’ working hours in order to accommodate travel and domestic needs, provided the regulations are satisfied. Part-time training may also available. Ask us!