Support for refugee doctors (IWAS Referrals)

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board have formed a Partnership with Cardiff City Council Into Work Advice Service (IWAS) to provide specialised medical clinical attachment placements to refugee & overseas doctors who have fled persecution in their own countries to seek asylum in the UK, and who now wish to rebuild their careers.

Who are the IWAS (Into Work Advice Service)?

The Into Work Advice Service provides employment, training and digital support to individuals actively seeking work or looking to upskill. The Into Work team can help you plan a route to employment or help you get on a training course to develop your skills.

What can the IWAS Team do for me? 

There dedicated team of Adult and Youth Mentors can help you with specialised employment advice and support, access to free training and access to a barrier fund for bespoke training needs as well as removing any barriers to training or employment. The service can be delivered on a 1:1 basis from any of our hubs or in your local community.

They have employment projects that cater for most individuals’ circumstances, whether you have recently been made redundant, are long or short-term unemployed, out of work due to a disability or looking to return to work after taking time off work to spend time with your children.

It can be difficult to integrate into the UK medical system. The process is frustrating and may feel unattainable due to financial constraints and other practical obstacles. Refugee doctors are often forced to rely on social security benefits instead of contributing their skills and knowledge to the NHS.

Can I have a Medical Clinical Attachment with CAVUHB through the IWAS Programme?

Yes, We have a dedicated referral program with the IWAS team, who will send us a referral on your behalf.

Once we get this referral we will be in contact with you to start the process to sign up for a IWAS Clinical Attachment in the specialty of your choice.

How can I contact the IWAS Team to start the process?

If you or anyone you know could benefit from IWAS support, for information about the project, the support provided or would like to have a medical Clinical Attachment, please contact:

Email: intoworkadviceservice@cardiff.gov.uk

Phone: 02920 871 071

Office available hours:
 Monday – Friday : 09:00 – 17:00