Forensic Psychiatry Higher Training

The NW London Higher Training Programme offers a comprehensive training experience for higher trainees in forensic psychiatry.

West London NHS Trust is one of the largest providers of forensic mental health care in the country. Trainees on the programme can take advantage of opportunities to train in a range of forensic services operating on a local, regional and national level. Training will include placements with specialist community forensic teams as well as in male low and medium secure units.  Trainees are encouraged to undertake a placement at the Orchard unit, a specialist inpatient unit providing secure forensic mental health care to women. All trainees are expected to undertake a placement at Broadmoor High Secure Hospital. In addition, trainees will gain experience in prison psychiatry throughout their higher training through regular prison assessments and weekly placements.

Protected Professional Development Sessions

The programme actively encourages the professional development of trainees. Higher trainees are provided with two sessions of protected professional development time weekly. There are regular opportunities to gain experience in leadership, management, research and teaching. In previous years, trainees have gained a variety of skills during these sessions, from leading research projects to completing leadership programmes with the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Trainees will be supported by their educational supervisor and training programme director to pursue their particular interests.

Applying for Higher Training in NW London

Applications for ST4 forensic psychiatry training posts in England, Scotland and Wales are co-ordinated by NHS England’s North West Local Office.

Details of recruitment process, timetables, indicative vacancies and applicant guidance can be found here: https://medical.hee.nhs.uk/medical-training-recruitment/medical-specialty-training/psychiatry/higher-psychiatry-training