London Deanery Finance Department

The London Deanery, now integrated into Health Education England (HEE) and subsequently NHS England, plays a crucial role in the postgraduate medical education and training across London. The Finance Department within this structure is responsible for the complex financial management of these training programs.

The primary function of the London Deanery Finance Department revolves around the allocation and management of funds for trainee doctors in various specialties. This includes, but is not limited to, funding for salaries, educational resources, examination fees, and study leave. The department works closely with various NHS Trusts and healthcare providers across London to ensure accurate and timely disbursement of these funds.

A key aspect of their work is managing the financial aspects of the Medical and Dental Education Levy (MADEL), a mechanism by which funding is distributed for postgraduate medical and dental training. The Finance Department is responsible for ensuring that MADEL funds are appropriately allocated based on agreed criteria and training needs. This requires detailed budgeting, forecasting, and reconciliation processes.

The department’s responsibilities also encompass the monitoring of training posts. They track the number of trainees in each specialty and ensure that funding aligns with the agreed number of training places. This involves collaboration with training program directors and other stakeholders to maintain accurate records and address any discrepancies.

Furthermore, the London Deanery Finance Department plays a vital role in financial reporting and compliance. They are accountable for preparing regular financial reports for internal stakeholders, NHS England, and other relevant regulatory bodies. These reports provide insights into the financial performance of postgraduate medical education in London and ensure adherence to financial regulations and guidelines.

The department also handles various financial transactions, including processing invoices, managing expenses, and reconciling bank statements. They must ensure that all financial activities are conducted with transparency and integrity. They work closely with auditors to ensure compliance with financial regulations and best practices.

The team typically comprises finance managers, accountants, and finance officers, each specializing in different aspects of financial management. Strong communication and collaboration are essential within the department, as well as with external stakeholders, to ensure effective financial oversight of postgraduate medical education in London.

In recent years, with the restructuring of HEE into NHS England, the London Deanery’s financial functions have become increasingly integrated into the broader NHS financial landscape. This has required adaptations to existing processes and systems, but the core mission remains the same: to ensure the efficient and effective allocation of resources to support the training of future doctors in London.