Unconditional Job Offer Rescinded

Case Study

Dr A, a ST5 in Clinical Radiology, successfully applied for the role of Senior Clinical Fellow at a Trust. They received an unconditional job offer on the same day their pre-employment checks were completed, however, the offer was later rescinded due to one of the required references needing more information. Dr A sought advice from MDS regarding their rights in this situation.

MDS advice

MDS examined Dr A’s job application form, the completed references, the timeline between when they were completed and when the unconditional offer was sent to Dr A. MDS highlighted that three months had passed between the day the reference in question was provided to the Trust and when the unconditional offer was sent. The Trust had had ample opportunity to seek further clarifications on the reference, if any were needed, before the unconditional offer letter was sent to Dr A. MDS drafted a letter to the Trust and advised Dr A on how to conduct their discussion with the Trust’s recruitment team. With MDS’s help and advice, Dr A obtained more information regarding their reference and a timeline when all the enquiries would be completed. The Trust later re-issued Dr A an unconditional job offer and Dr A was able to start their new role. MDS also conducted a review of Dr A’s employment contract as part of their membership benefits.

Learning points

This case demonstrates the importance of following up with any prospective employer about their recruitment process if you consider that it is unusually long. Your Medical Defence organisation can advise you on your rights during the recruitment process, to ensure a fair process is being followed.

MDS can help

Find yourself in a similar situation where your NHS unconditional job offer was rescinded? Is this happening right now? If you are a MDS member, call our office on 0300 30 32 442 or email or case managers at [email protected]. Not an MDS member? Get in touch and join today!