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Supporting SAS doctors and dentists in Wales: resources, guidance and professional development

Published 12/03/2026

Recognising the vital role of Specialist, Associate Specialist and Specialty (SAS) doctors and dentists, Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW), has a range of targeted resources, funding opportunities and professional support to help clinicians build rewarding and progressive careers.

Funding for professional development beyond standard study leave

Investing in professional development is key to career progression. SAS doctors and dentists in Wales can access additional funding, over and above standard Health Board study leave budgets.

This funding can support a wide range of opportunities, including:

  • professional courses (e.g. masterclass in palliative medicine, ESSO advance course on breast cancer surgery)
  • postgraduate qualifications (e.g. PG cert in calcium and bone medicine, postgraduate diploma in stroke medicine)
  • service development initiatives (e.g. major trauma team leader course, operative birth training course)
  • skills enhancement and leadership training (e.g. assessment of autism, MSc leadership in healthcare)

This funding is designed specifically to help SAS clinicians broaden their expertise, develop new skills and strengthen career progression, while also supporting service improvement within NHS Wales.  

Providing SAS doctors and dentists with funding for courses supports career development,

Dedicated national and local advocacy

Across Wales, a network of SAS Tutors and SAS advocates offering on-the-ground support to help with education, career development and progression.

They support by ensuring the SAS voices are represented at a strategic level:

  • providing accessible, on-the-ground support
  • helping to resolve challenges early
  • strengthening recognition of the SAS role

Regular national conferences (North and South Wales) are held to give clinicians opportunities to connect with colleagues across specialties and build professional networks.

Details can be found here https://heiw.nhs.wales/education-and-training/sas-doctors/

Portfolio Pathway (the previous CESR route) guidance and support

For clinicians considering progression to specialist registration through the Portfolio Pathway, HEIW offers dedicated guidance and peer support. Following the 2021 contract reforms, the introduction of the Specialist grade created a clear progression route beyond Specialty Doctor level to the Consultant. Currently, around 30 SAS doctors who have attained Specialist Registration are actively supporting colleagues on the same journey. They can be contacted via a dedicated Portfolio Pathway advice email: HEIW.SASportfoliopathway@wales.nhs.uk

Support from the national SAS team

Support for SAS doctors and dentists in Wales is coordinated by HEIW SAS team led by Mr Raj Nirula, Associate Dean SAS doctors and dentists.

Through the Welsh SAS Charter, clinicians benefit from structured support, including protected time for development, mentoring opportunities and improved access to resources.

Reflecting on the programme, Raj Nirula said: “These SAS resources are designed to raise awareness, strengthen understanding and unlock the full potential of the SAS role in NHS Wales. By providing practical support and development opportunities, they ensure SAS doctors and dentists are recognised, valued, and empowered to shape the future of healthcare in Wales.”

Find out more - To explore all available resources, contacts and opportunities, visit our dedicated SAS webpages: https://heiw.nhs.wales/education-and-training/sas-doctors/

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