Consultant in Anaesthetics

Overview

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

BELFORD HOSPITAL, FORT WILLIAM
Consultant in Anaesthetics
Salary: £111,430 to £148,064 per annum pro rata

We are looking for a Consultant in Anaesthetics to work closely with our existing 3 Consultant Anaesthetists as well as the Medical and Surgical teams of the Hospital, to deliver a first-rate service to the population of Lochaber and beyond. Fort William is situated at the foot of Ben Nevis and is known for its outdoor scenery. The Belford Hospital has an established reputation in the management of trauma and elective surgery, with 24/7 consultant cover supported by modern facilities including a well-equipped HDU, laboratory and radiology services (including on-site ultrasound and CT).

The on-call frequency is 1:4 with prospective cover; on-call attracts a supplement of 8% in line with Terms and Conditions of Service.

The acute specialties of Medicine and Surgery are supported by anaesthetic services. All specialties provide 24/7 (non-resident) consultant cover (including A&E). Our clinical services are valued by both local residents and a large tourist population. Your personal development and maintenance of clinical skills are supported, with video conferencing and networks in place to maintain specialist skills.

The Belford has an on-site laboratory service providing biochemistry, haematology and cross-match services 24/7, plus on-site radiology with ultrasound and CT. There is a visiting echocardiography service. The successful candidates will have well-developed anaesthesia skills, excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, and be able to work flexibly as part of an integrated team.

The successful candidate will deliver a high standard of anaesthetic care as part of a team, participate in on-call duties, support emergency and elective cases, and contribute to teaching and research opportunities where appropriate. The role may involve cross-site work and flexible hours as discussed during the recruitment process. There is emphasis on maintaining clinical skills and supporting patient care within the region.

Applicants must be on the GMC Specialist Register or be within 6 months of obtaining their CCT at the time of interview. An active interest in teaching is desirable. An interest in research and links with the University of the Highlands and Islands and Aberdeen University are noted. An active interest in remote and rural medicine is encouraged, with opportunities to network with Highland and Scotland-wide specialists.

Well-developed anaesthesia skills, excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work flexibly as part of an integrated team. The post is suitable for flexible working patterns and potential cross-site roles. Applicants not currently on the specialist register may be considered for a fixed-term contract in the first instance.

Video conferencing and national support networks are in place to support ongoing professional development. There are opportunities to be involved in research with local universities and to engage in teaching with medical students and trainees.

Informal enquiries to:
Mr Bruce Tulloh, Clinical Lead and Consultant in General Surgery, ;
Dr Katrina Gannon, Consultant Anaesthetist, ;
Emma Oates, Rural General Hospital Manager,  For more information about the Highlands, Fort William offers access to outdoor activities and good transport links, including rail connections to Glasgow and sleeper services to London. A short video about the hospital and surrounding area is available. Applicants who wish to work part-time or flexibly are encouraged to apply. Upon interview, you will be on the General Medical Council Specialist Register with a Licence to Practise or within six months of obtaining CCT.

The posts can be adapted to suit the individual candidate, with hours and job plan discussed on an individual basis. Applicants not currently on the specialist register may be considered for a fixed-term contract in the first instance.

Closing Date: 20th October 2025
Job Reference: RT 251432