IDT and special circumstances: How they interact

What this article is about
This article explains how IDT and special circumstances may interact, and why they are not the same process.

Who this is for
Doctors in training who are considering an IDT because of personal, health, caring or other significant circumstances.

What you need to know

• IDT and special circumstances are separate processes.
• Special circumstances may be relevant to why you are seeking a transfer, but they do not automatically guarantee an IDT.
• IDT applications must still meet national eligibility criteria.
• A transfer also depends on the availability of a suitable funded post in the receiving region.
• In rare and urgent cases, a highly exceptional transfer may need senior review outside the usual process.
• Exceptional transfers are only considered in limited circumstances and require appropriate approval.
  

What to do

1. Consider whether your situation fits the national IDT eligibility criteria.
2. Check whether you also need to make a special circumstances request through the relevant process.
3. Gather evidence that explains your circumstances and why a transfer is needed.
4. Submit your IDT application during the published window where possible.
5. If the situation is urgent and cannot wait for the usual process, seek advice through the appropriate support route. 

If this does not work
If your situation does not meet the usual criteria but is urgent or exceptional, your case may need senior review. This does not guarantee approval and will depend on the circumstances, training requirements and whether a safe and suitable transfer can be arranged.

Who to contact
Use the IDT query route on the PGMDE Support Portal. If your query relates to special circumstances, use the relevant special circumstances support route.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Explaining how local processes may apply after a transfer is approved.
• Escalating urgent or exceptional local issues through the appropriate route.
• Supporting placement discussions after transfer information is received. 

HET cannot help with

• Treating special circumstances approval as automatic IDT approval.
• Guaranteeing a vacancy or preferred placement.
• Bypassing national eligibility rules unless an exceptional process is formally approved.
• Providing clinical, legal or employment advice. 

Related articles

• Special circumstances: eligibility criteria and how to apply
• Evidence and supporting documentation needed for a special circumstances application
• Inter-Deanery Transfer (IDT): overview and key eligibility rules
  

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026