A Period of Grace (PoG) enables resident doctors who have completed training and not yet obtained a consultant post to continue in employment (at speciality registrar level) for a limited period of time.
The extension to employment contract is for a time limited period up to a maximum of 6 months from their CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) date, as set out in the 2016 Junior Doctor Contract.
The resident doctor is no longer considered to be in training, but in is post for the purposes of service.
Please note
The following guidance does not apply to resident doctors in Foundation, General Practice or Core Training programmes.
NHS England – North West's Period of Grace Guidance Notes
A link to the POG intent form will be sent to resident doctors 6-7 months prior to their Certification date.
Page last updated: 2 December 2025