The UK urgently needs more health professionals to meet growing demand for healthcare.
Refugee health professionals have a lot to offer, but the return to practising can be a long and complicated process.
12%
The total cost of a training a refugee doctor to work in the NHS is just 12% that of training a new doctor for one year£300K
the cost to train one Foundation Year 2 doctor in the UK£25K
the total cost of retraining a refugee doctor into workBuilding Bridges helps people who were health professionals in their home countries to reconnect with their professional careers and work within the NHS.
We provide specialist advice, language training, work placements, employability workshops, clinical exam preparation and clinical attachments.
587
refugee doctors were supported by Building Bridges from 2009 to 2024198
got a job in the NHSGet support
If you are a refugee health professional, find out more about Building Bridges below.
"I do feel proud to be part of the NHS to be able to serve the public... These people share your dreams with you - they want you to get where you want to get."
Dr Saad Maida
“When you help a newly registered refugee doctor, who is new to the NHS, and ensure they have the right training to perform efficiently and effectively, there is no bigger reward than seeing them thrive. They already have wide ranging medical experience but just need that initial support to re-start their career in this country. It is a win-win situation for the individuals and the NHS.”
Dr Mohammad Alam Training Programme Director, “Return to Practice”, Newham Hospital (Barts & The London NHS Trust)
Support our work
You can help refugees to rebuild their lives in the UK by making a donation or volunteering on one of our projects.
