A career in medicine can normally lend itself well to flexible training/working for those who choose to train/work less than full time. However, it is important to note that any period of less than full time training will almost inevitably increase the duration of training.

Policies for less than full time training may vary depending on your employer, and local guidance will be provided when required – usually through your local Postgraduate Deanery. Medical and Foundation Schools will also be able to advise you once you have begun your training. 

The National Working Group on Women in Medicine, chaired by Baroness Deech, considers the current situation, reviews existing work and recommends a programme of action to improve opportunities for women in medicine, including flexible training. More information on this can be found on the Department of Health website.

Further information
Further details are outlined in the NHS Employer’s guidance ‘Doctors in flexible training – Principles underpinning the new arrangements for flexible training’.
 
The ‘Guide for Postgraduate Specialty Training in the UK’ provides more detailed information on flexible training and the arrangements that can be made for trainees who are unable or, in some cases, do not wish to work full time.