Less Than Full Time (LTFT) Training

Overview

Less Than Full Time (LTFT) training allows doctors and dentists in training to work reduced hours while continuing to progress through their training programme. All Resident Doctors must apply for LTFT or changes to working hours via the Trainee Self Service portal. Applications submitted outside this system will not be accepted (except for Public Health and Dental trainees).

Who Can Apply

This policy applies to doctors and dentists in training, including:

  • Foundation doctors (FY1 and FY2)
  • Core trainees (CT1–CT4)
  • Specialty registrars (StR)
  • Academic Clinical Fellows
  • Clinical Lecturers  

Eligibility and Principles

All Resident Doctors and Dentists have the right to request flexible working, including LTFT training.

  • Requests are considered on an individual basis
  • There is no prioritisation of reasons for applying
  • Approval depends on training capacity and service requirements
  • Applications can be made at any stage of training

If you wish to return to full-time training, this will be arranged when a suitable placement becomes available.  

Types of LTFT Training

There are two approved ways to undertake LTFT training:

Slot Share

Two Resident Doctors or Dentists share one full-time post and divide duties, including out-of-hours work. Flexibility in working patterns is expected.

Part-time in a full-time post A Resident Doctor of Dentist remains in a full-time training post but works reduced hours.

Rotations and Training Duration

  • LTFT doctors and dentists follow the same training programme structure as full-time colleagues
  • Training time is extended on a pro-rata basis

Example:
A 3-year training programme at 60% may take approximately 5 years to complete (subject to satisfactory progression).  

Working Hours

  • Minimum LTFT working level is 50% full-time equivalent (WTE)
  • In exceptional circumstances, this may be reduced temporarily (minimum 20%)

Final training duration is agreed with your Training Programme Director or equivalent.

Out-of-hours and On-call Work

  • Out-of-hours duties are undertaken on a pro-rata basis
  • Adjustments may be made where necessary to meet training or legal requirements.

Additional Work

Resident Doctors of Dentists in LTFT posts may undertake additional work (for example, locum shifts), provided that:

  • It does not negatively impact training
  • It complies with GMC Good Medical Practice
  • It is declared through Form R and Wider Scope of Practice Form

Study Leave

  • LTFT doctors and dentists are expected to access the same educational opportunities as full-time colleagues
  • Flexibility may be required to attend mandatory teaching
  • Study leave is managed in line with national guidance

ARCP (Annual Review of Competence Progression)

  • ARCPs take place at least once every 12–15 months
  • Progression is based on capability and competence, not time alone.

Period of Grace

  • Provides time to secure employment after completing training
  • Maximum duration is 6 months, regardless of working pattern

Acting Up

Resident Doctors may act up into consultant roles:

  • Usually up to 3 months (pro rata for LTFT)
  • May contribute towards Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)

How to Apply

Specialty Doctors (including Foundation and General Practice)

Apply through the Trainee Self Service portal:
https://trainee.tis-selfservice.nhs.uk/

Public Health and Dental

  • Complete the relevant application form – Click here to download
  • Submit to your local education team via email

Application requirements

  • Support from your Training Programme Director
  • At least 16 weeks’ notice
  • Short-notice requests considered on a case-by-case basis
  • Health-related requests may be prioritised

Appeals

If your application is not approved, you have the right to appeal.

Further Information

This policy aligns with:

For advice, speak to your Training Programme Director or local education team.

Contact

For further support, please email england.ltft.sw@nhs.net