Less than full-time training (LTFT) explained

If you're thinking about training less than full-time (LTFT) it's likely you have other commitments you need to devote time to, while also trying to get the most out of your training. 

Anaesthesia has a long tradition of supporting doctors who wish to train LTFT and of all hospital specialties is second only to paediatrics for numbers of part-time trainees.

LTFT training programmes in anaesthesia are usually well organised and most departments will have had experience of LTFT trainees. 

The human resources policies for LTFT training may vary between deaneries and employers so it's important you check the correct local procedures to follow. Most schools of anaesthesia will have a flexible training advisor who can help you with this, while established LTFT trainees can be a wealth of information. 

Less than Full-Time Training in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine: An A to Z Guide

Less than full-time (LTFT) training enables doctors to continue training whilst having enough time to care for dependants, themselves (for health problems or disability) or, in specified circumstances, pursue other non-work related commitments.

The purpose of this guide is to collate information from a variety of sources to make it easier for anaesthetic and intensive care medicine (ICM) trainees to access information regarding LTFT training as well as offer suggestions on how to maintain a successful LTFT training programme.

Download the guide

Other useful resources

• The Association provides wellbeing and support resources, many of which are relevant to LTFT training.  
• About Keeping in touch (KIT days). 
• The website of the Royal College of Anaesthetists also has a section dedicated to flexibility in training.  
• The BMA has a Guide to Flexible Training and can provide advice on many work related issues to members also offer services such as contract checking.  
• NHS Employers also produce a booklet on LTFT Training entitled ‘Principles Underpinning the New Arrangements for Flexible Training’.
• How do slot shares work?
• Enhancing training and support for learners
• NHS pension scheme update 2019
• NHS employers guide to LTFT pay on the 2016 junior doctor contract

LTFT rota template resource

Dr Rifca Le Dieu from Barts Heath was one of the faculty members at the LTFT Matters 2019 seminar. She has put together a rota template, which is a useful resource for all LTFT doctors.

LTFT representatives in your area

If you'd like some guidance on LTFT training you can contact an LTFT representative in your area by emailing [email protected].

Or see the map below for the LTFT trainee network contacts in your area. 

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