How special circumstances applications affect placements and rotations

What this article is about
This article explains how approved special circumstances may be considered when placements and rotations are planned.

Who this is for
Doctors and dentists in training who have applied for, or received approval for, special circumstances.

What you need to know

• Special circumstances may be considered during placement or rotation planning.
• Approval does not guarantee a specific post, site, employer, rota or travel arrangement.
• Training requirements and programme needs must still be met.
• Some changes after rotations have been issued may require a formal rotation change process.
• Late requests may be more difficult to accommodate, especially where employer information has already been issued.
• HET may need to liaise with programme teams, specialty teams and employers where appropriate.

What to do

1. Submit your request as early as possible.
2. Provide clear information about the placement or rotation impact.
3. Explain any practical restrictions that need to be considered.
4. Keep your Training Programme Director or educational supervisor informed where appropriate.
5. Wait for confirmation before assuming a change has been agreed.
6. If your circumstances change, update the relevant team promptly.

If this does not work
If a placement cannot be changed, HET or the programme team may consider whether any other reasonable options are available. This may not always be possible, particularly where training requirements or post availability limit options.

Who to contact
Use the PGMDE Support Portal for special circumstances and placement-related queries.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Considering special circumstances as part of placement planning.
• Liaising with specialty and programme teams.
• Supporting appropriate updates to training records.
• Explaining where a rotation change process may be needed.

HET cannot help with

• Guaranteeing a preferred placement, hospital, trust, location or rota.
• Overriding training requirements or post availability.
• Making employer rota, contract, pay or HR decisions.
• Confirming changes before approval and placement discussions are complete.

Related articles

• Special circumstances: eligibility criteria and how to apply
• How rotations are allocated and when you will be notified
• Requesting a local swap or change to your placement

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026