Early Practice Support Scheme (EPSS)
Derbyshire’s Local New to Practice Scheme
Starting a career in general practice can be both exciting and overwhelming. In Derbyshire, we recognise the importance of supporting newly qualified GPs and nurses during this critical transition. That’s why, even after the conclusion of national funding for New to Practice scheme, we’re proud to continue offering a locally funded Early Practice Support Scheme (EPSS). This programme builds on five years of success, providing a structured, supportive environment for clinicians in their first year of practice.
The scheme is open to GPs and nurses who have qualified within the past 12 months and are working in Derbyshire general practices, including those who are locuming. Please Note: Due to funding limitations, places are limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged.
What You’ll Gain
- Quarterly education sessions covering clinical and non-clinical topics
- Six hours of mentoring with an experienced GP over 12 months
- Networking opportunities through events and peer groups
- Access to CPD resources, including recorded sessions for flexible learning
Financial Support
To support participation in the scheme, funding is available to help cover key elements such as education and CPD. This helps ease the transition into practice and protect time for learning. For full details on eligibility and how to claim, please refer to the programme documentation.
Why It Matters
Supporting newly qualified clinicians isn’t just about easing their transition, it’s a strategic investment in the future of general practice. Retention data shows that most participants in the New to Practice scheme report feeling positive and supported in their roles, with wellbeing scores averaging 4.10 out of 5. This sense of stability and belonging is key to keeping clinicians in the profession.
From a financial perspective, the cost of losing a GP or Nurse within their first two years in practice can be as high as £800,000. This figure includes recruitment, onboarding, lost revenue, and training expenses.
By investing in mentoring, CPD, and peer support, Derbyshire’s EPSS not only improves job satisfaction, it protects the sustainability of general practice.
Step 1: Complete a short Expression of Interest (EOI) form
This form acts as a light-touch contractual agreement, confirming your eligibility for funding, provided you attend the mandatory quarterly education sessions.
Step 2: Receive Your Welcome Pack
Once your EOI is submitted, you’ll receive a welcome email with everything you need to get started. This will include:
- Guidance on how your practice/ employer can claim your funding each quarter
- FAQs to answer common queries
- The programme timetable
- Instructions for applying to our mentoring offer via a separate form
- Enrolment onto our Derbyshire Induction Programme