Frequently asked questions
Global Talent Development
Getting started
Here you'll find answers to our most frequently asked questions about observerships and fellowships at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. Whether you're applying for a Global Talent Development placement, preparing to start, currently undertaking a placement or nearing completion, you'll find guidance and support below.
If you can't find the information you're looking for, please contact the Global Talent Development team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk and a member of the team will be happy to help.
Jump to a section
Common questions
Here you'll find our most frequently asked questions and answers.
Before an application is made
Applications, eligibility, programmes, funding, sponsorship and how to apply.
Pre-placement requirements and visas
Required documents, pre-placement checks, visas, travel and accommodation.
About my placement
Saying goodbye, certificates, references, feedback and future opportunities.
Common questions and answers
What happens after I submit my application?
Once you share your application, you will receive an email confirming that we have received it. The Global Talent Development team will then review your application and, where appropriate, begin matching you with a supervisor based on your preferred programme and dates.
We will keep you informed throughout the process and contact you once a match has been made with a supervisor. If your application is successful, we reach out and guide you through the next steps of your journey.
Am I eligible to apply?
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the programme you are applying for.
In general, applicants should have an interest in the relevant programme and either be studying towards a healthcare qualification or be a qualified healthcare professional. Specific eligibility requirements for each programme can be found on our dedicated Observership and Fellowship pages. Take a look and let us know if you would like to talk anything through.
What documents do I need to provide?
As part of the pre-placement process, the MFT Resourcing Team will contact you and guide you through the required checks and documentation. This will include:
- Verification of identity
- Qualification - your primary qualification/evidence of degree programme
- Enhanced DBS or Certificate of Good Standing/Police Clearance Certificate
- Model Declaration Form
- Reference check (one professional and one character)
- Up to date CV
- Health check
Can I start my placement before all documentation checks have been completed?
You are not able to begin your placement until all pre-placement checks are complete.
How much does a placement cost?
Observerships
Our observership fees are £850 for the first week and £300 for each additional week. For example, a four-week observership would be £1,750.
We offer undergraduate students a £100 discount per week.
Fellowships
Fellowship fees are made up of two elements:
- The fellow's salary and associated NHS employer on-costs at the NHS appropriate grade.
- A fellowship scheme fee of £21,500 per year.
All fellowship applicants must have a confirmed sponsoring organisation.
Further information on programme fees can be found here. If you would like to discuss our fees, payment options or sponsorship arrangements, please contact the Global Talent Development team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk
Do I need a visa and can MFT provide a supporting letter?
If you are seeking an observership, you must hold a valid visa that permits you to be in the United Kingdom. This may include a Visitor Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, PLAB Visa or another appropriate immigration route. If you are interested in pursuing a fellowship, visa arrangements vary depending on the sponsorship route.
If you want to discuss your options with us, reach out to the Global Talent Development team as early as possible.
If your application is successful, we will share a conditional offer letter which you may use in support of a visa application, where appropriate.
Does MFT provide accommodation?
We’re here to help you feel at home in Manchester. As part of our pastoral support, the Global Talent Development team provides guidance, recommendations and practical advice to help you find accommodation in Manchester that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Can I change or withdraw my application?
Yes. We understand your plans and circumstances may change, you can let us know of any amendments to your application or withdraw it at any stage of the process.
Simply get in touch with the Global Talent Development team as soon as possible and we will be happy to talk through your options and advise on any implications for your application.
Before an application is made
Choosing the right placement
What is the difference between an observership and fellowship?
Observerships are short-term, observational placements lasting 4 to 12 weeks. They provide you with an opportunity to learn about NHS practice, observe NHS services and gain exposure to multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Fellowships are longer placements lasting 12 to 24 months. They combine supervised clinical experience, educational development and mentorship, allowing you to gain in-depth experience within your chosen programme area.
What programmes are available at MFT?
Here in Manchester, we offer a wide range of observership and fellowship opportunities across both adult and paediatric specialties.
With ten hospitals and specialist services, our programmes allow healthcare professionals and students to learn from an internationally recognised centre of excellence.
For details of our current opportunities, please visit our Observership and Fellowship programme pages.
Can I undertake a clinical elective at MFT?
Yes. You may apply for a clinical elective through the Global Talent Development programme.
Elective placements arranged through the Global Talent Development programme are strictly observational. You will have the opportunity to observe clinical practice and attend educational activities however the observership does not include direct patient contact, clinical duties or any aspect of patient care.
We understand that elective placements are tailored to specific learning objectives and educational goals. If you would like to discuss elective opportunities, please contact the Global Talent Development team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk and we will be happy to help.
Your application
How can I apply?
We invite you to share an application for a Global Talent Development placement by completing our application form here.
Before applying, it may be useful for you to view our application guidance, what to expect throughout the application process.
What happens after I submit my application?
Once you share your application, you will receive an email confirming that we have received it. The Global Talent Development team will then review your application and, where appropriate, begin matching you with a supervisor based on your preferred programme and dates.
We will keep you informed throughout the process and contact you once a match has been made with a supervisor. If your application is successful, we reach out and guide you through the next steps of your journey.
How will I know if my application has been accepted?
If your application is successful, we will share a conditional offer letter outlining the details of your proposed placement and next steps including how to pay and working through the pre-placement checks.
We will keep you updated throughout the application process and get in touch with you if there are any developments.
Can I change or withdraw my application?
Yes. We understand that plans and circumstances can change, you can request amendments to your application or withdraw at any stage of the process.
Simply get in touch with the Global Talent Development team as soon as possible and we will be happy to talk through your options and advise on any implications for your application.
Funding and sponsorship
How much does a placement cost?
Observerships
Our observership fees are £850 for the first week and £300 for each additional week. For example, a four-week observership would be £1,750.
We offer undergraduate students a £100 discount per week.
Fellowships
Fellowship fees are made up of two elements:
- The fellow's salary and associated NHS employer on-costs at the NHS appropriate grade.
- A fellowship scheme fee of £21,500 per year.
All fellowship applicants must have a confirmed sponsoring organisation to support the placement.
Further information on programme fees can be found here. If you would like to discuss our fees, payment options or sponsorship arrangements, please contact the Global Talent Development team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk
When and how do I pay?
If your observership application is successful, your conditional offer letter will include easy to follow payment instructions. You can pay online using a debit or credit card or if you would prefer to make a bank transfer, we will share an invoice with you.
Fellowship funding arrangements are agreed directly with your sponsoring organisation as part of the placement approval process. If you have any questions about fellowship funding, our team will be happy to help.
Can my employer, organisation or sponsor pay on my behalf?
Yes. Observerships can be funded by yourself or by your employer, organisation, or sponsor.
For fellowships, it is required to have a sponsoring organisation in place. The Global Talent Development team can work directly with your sponsor to help coordinate funding and payment arrangements, making the process as straightforward as possible for everyone involved.
How will I know if my payment has been received?
Once your payment has been received, we will send you confirmation and if you would like a copy of your receipt, we will share this too.
Following payment confirmation, we’ll continue with the next steps for arranging your placement, keeping you updated as things progress.
Are there grants, funding or sponsorship opportunities available at MFT?
MFT does not operate a grant scheme or provide funding for participants in the Global Talent Development programme.
However, you may wish to explore funding opportunities through your employer, sponsoring organisation, educational institution or external funding body. If you are exploring funding options, the Global Talent Development team may be able to provide guidance and signpost potential sources of support.
Pre-placement requirements and Visas
Pre-placement requirements
When do the pre-placement checks begin and how long do they take?
You will be invited to begin pre-placement checks with the MFT Resourcing Team on successful acceptance of an application and payment or funding arrangements have been confirmed.
The process typically begins around two months before your proposed start date, although this may vary depending on when your application is submitted. To help ensure your placement starts as planned, we recommend completing the required checks and documentation as promptly as possible.
What documents do I need to provide?
As part of the pre-placement process, the MFT Resourcing Team will contact you and guide you through the required checks and documentation. This will include:
- Verification of identity
- Qualification - your primary qualification/evidence of degree programme
- Enhanced DBS or Certificate of Good Standing/Police Clearance Certificate
- Model Declaration Form
- Reference check (one professional and one character)
- Up to date CV
- Health check
Can I start my placement before all documentation checks have been completed?
You are not able to begin your placement until all pre-placement checks are complete.
When will I receive my license to attend (observers) or contract of employment (fellows)?
Once all pre-placement checks have been successfully completed, we will share with you a Licence to Attend (observerships) or a contract of employment (fellowships) prior to starting your placement in Manchester.
The timing will depend on when the required checks are completed, as these documents can only be issued once all pre-placement requirements have been met.
What happens if there is a delay with the pre-placement checks?
If there is a delay with the pre-placement checks, we may need to be flexible with your start date to allow sufficient time for all requirements to be completed.
To help avoid delays, we recommend completing any checks and documentation as promptly as possible. If any issues arise during the process, the Global Talent Development team and MFT Resourcing Team will work with you to identify a solution and support you wherever possible.
Visas, travel and accommodation
Do I need a Visa and can MFT provide a supporting letter?
If you are seeking an observership placement, you must hold a valid visa that permits you to be in the United Kingdom. This may include a Visitor Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, PLAB Visa or another appropriate immigration route. If you are interested in pursuing a fellowship, visa arrangements vary depending on the sponsorship route.
If you want to discuss your options with us, reach out to the Global Talent Development team as early as possible during the application process.
If your application is successful, we will share a conditional offer letter which you may use in support of a visa application, where appropriate.
What happens if my Visa is delayed?
If your visa is delayed, we may need to be flexible with your start date.
If there are any changes to your visa application or circumstances, please let the Global Talent Development team know as soon as possible. We will work with you to understand your options and support you wherever possible.
How can MFT support with my travel and arrival?
As part of our pastoral support, the Global Talent Development team is here to help you settle into life in Manchester. We provide guidance on accommodation options and settling into Manchester.
To help make your arrival as smooth and welcoming as possible, we will also meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation.
When should I book my travel and accommodation?
We recommend waiting until your placement has been unconditionally confirmed before making any travel or accommodation arrangements.
This will help ensure your travel plans align with your placement dates and any pre-placement or visa requirements. If you would like advice on planning your arrival, the Global Talent Development team will be happy to support you.
Does MFT provide accommodation?
We’re here to help you feel at home in Manchester. As part of our pastoral support, the Global Talent Development team provides guidance, recommendations and practical advice to help you find accommodation in Manchester that suits your lifestyle and budget.
About my placement
Getting started
What happens on my first day?
On your first day, you will be greeted on arrival by a member of the Global Talent Development team, who will support you settling in and give you a tour of the hospital.
This will be your opportunity to ask any questions before being introduced to your supervisor and starting your placement. You may also be invited to take part in a filmed informal discussion with the GTD team about your learning objectives, professional interests and placement aspirations. And you may also be introduced to other observers and fellows who are having similar experiences.
Will I receive an ID badge and IT system access?
On your first day, you will be issued with an ID badge, which you can use throughout your placement for access on site.
As a fellow you will be provided with IT access to support your role and learning objectives. As observerships are observational in nature, IT systems access is not usually required. However, in some circumstances, it may be beneficial for you to be granted IT access to support your learning and development.
Will I receive a timetable for my programme?
Your supervisor will provide a timetable for your placement, tailored to your learning objectives.
In some cases, this may be prepared before your arrival based on your CV, application and learning objectives. Your supervisor may also work with you in your first few days to develop a timetable that reflects your interests and goals.
Who is my supervisor?
If your application is successful, we will match you with a supervising clinician who will support your learning objectives and help you get the most from your time with us in Manchester. Their details will be included in your conditional offer letter.
We understand that having the right supervisor is an important part of your experience. If you have any questions about your supervisor, please contact the Global Talent Development team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk. We’ll be happy to help.
During my placement
What should I do if I am absent or unwell during my placement?
If you are unwell or unable to attend, please let the Global Talent Development Team know as soon as possible and we will notify your supervisor on your behalf.
Can I take annual leave during my placement?
If you are undertaking an observership, annual leave is not included within the placement period. If you are planning any time away, we advise you to factor this in with your placement dates before your observership begins.
For fellows, you may be entitled to annual leave, depending on the terms of your contract of employment. If applicable, the Global Talent Development team can help you understand your leave entitlement and any planned leave arrangements.
What happens on bank holidays?
Bank holidays are public holidays in the UK. If your placement includes a bank holiday, we recommend discussing arrangements with your supervisor in advance.
Depending on the clinical service, placement activities may continue as normal on that day, or alternative learning opportunities may be available. If needed, the Global Talent Development team can help coordinate arrangements and discuss the options available to you, tailored to what you are interested in.
What should I wear during my placement?
Observers are expected to dress in a professional and smart manner throughout their placement. When attending clinical areas, MFT's Bare Below the Elbows policy applies, and footwear should be closed-toe and appropriate for a healthcare environment.
If you are entering an area requiring scrubs, these will be provided for you. You are advised to bring your own clogs if your placement includes access to surgical theatres/operating rooms.
Fellows will be provided with an appropriate uniform for the duration of their placement.
You can view MFT’s uniform policy here.
Is there a library?
Yes. We have four dedicated library and knowledge services across the Trust. These are located at Oxford Road Campus, Wythenshawe Hospital, North Manchester General Hospital and Trafford General Hospital. These areas provide you with access to excellent study space, learning resources. Fellows will also have access to journals.
You may also wish to explore libraries available across Manchester. Popular options among the Global Talent Development team include Manchester Central Library and The John Rylands Library.
The Global Talent Development team will be happy to signpost you to relevant library facilities during your time in Manchester.
Who should I contact if I need support?
The Global Talent Development team is here to support you throughout your placement. Whether you have questions before you arrive, need help during your placement, or would like advice on settling into Manchester, we're happy to help.
You can contact us at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk. You can also speak with your supervisor for placement-specific support and questions.
What should I do if I have any concerns during my placement?
If you have any concerns whilst on your placement, we encourage you to speak with a member of the Global Talent Development Team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk or with your supervisor.
We are here to support you and can arrange a discussion in person, by phone or online to help address any concerns and ensure you get the most from your placement experience.
Can I claim benefits, funding or financial support during my placement?
Participants of the Global Talent Development programme are expected to have sufficient funding in place to support themselves throughout their placement and should not expect to be eligible for benefits.
You may wish to explore funding or sponsorship opportunities through your employer, sponsoring organisation, educational institution or external funding body. The Global Talent Development team may also be able to provide guidance and signpost potential sources of support where appropriate.
Completing my placement
What do I need to do on the final day of my placement?
Before your placement ends, the Global Talent Development team will be in touch to arrange an exit meeting to discuss your experience, learning outcomes and feedback. You will also receive your certificate.
You may be invited to share your experience as part of a testimonial or short interview, and we will collect your MFT ID badge and any other Trust equipment.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Upon successful completion of a Global Talent Development programme, we will share your certificate of completion in both digital and printed formats. You may wish to use this as evidence of your participation in the programme and your professional development activities.
How can I share my feedback?
We welcome your feedback at the end of your placement. You will have the opportunity to share your feedback either in person or through our online feedback form.
The feedback form will be shared with you alongside your digital certificate following completion of your placement.
Can I obtain a reference from my supervisor?
Along with your certificate, we will share an acknowledgement letter confirming your participation and achievement of your learning objectives.
If you require a specific reference, you may wish to request one from your supervisor. The Global Talent Development team can help facilitate this and put you in contact with your supervisor following completion of your placement.
Can I extend my placement?
For observerships, extensions may be possible, subject to supervisor availability and programme capacity. The combined duration of the original placement and any extension must not exceed 12 weeks. Additional observership fees will apply, and extensions can only be confirmed once payment has been received.
For fellowships, extensions are less common due to visa and sponsorship arrangements. If you would like to discuss extending your placement or exploring further opportunities, please contact the Global Talent Development team at global.talent@mft.nhs.uk
Can I apply for another Observership or Fellowship?
Yes. We welcome you to return to Manchester and would be delighted to support you with another placement opportunity here at MFT.
Simply submit a new application form, explore our current observership and fellowship programmes, or contact the Global Talent Development team to discuss your options.