Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will take steps to ensure that F1 doctors receive their (a) programme details and (b) work schedules well in advance of their start dates.

We are aware that there is a delay in the allocation of some foundation year one doctors’ programme details and work schedules. We have asked NHS England to urgently tackle this issue. We know there is more to do and NHS England is working to ensure that all posts are confirmed as soon as possible, while keeping applicants informed throughout the process, including through webinars.

NHS England is due to review the Foundation programme allocation process to make sure it works well for applicants. The review is scheduled for after 2025/26 allocations, and is aiming to commence in 2026. NHS England will advise stakeholders how they can input in due course.