Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals has been recognised for the support we provide for our internationally educated nurses and midwives.
The NHS Pastoral Care Quality Award is part of NHS England and NHS Improvement’s International Recruitment Programme. The programme supports NHS organisations to increase and develop their international recruitment plans.
Support offered by the Trust includes a dedicated OSCE training programme and access to support, preceptorship, training and development opportunities. We also support international nurses and midwives joining the Trust to find accommodation, assistance with opening a bank account and provide a small welcome pack when they arrive.
In 2023, we welcomed 105 internationally educated nurses and midwives that graduated in countries such as here India, Philippines, Nepal, Ghana, Trinidad, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Jamaica, Nigeria, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Guyana.
Kay-Ann Mantack Johnson, Clinical Practice Educator for Internationally Educated Nurses, said: “As an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) who continued my journey of development at ASPH, I am very impressed with the robust and dynamic nature of support given to our overseas colleagues, also the acknowledgement and valuing of our varied experiences and skills. Relocating to a new country is never easy, and often our overseas colleagues experience many challenges as they navigate the unknown, experience new ways of living and find ways to adjust while joining teams to deliver safe compassionate care.
“In my role as CPE for IENs, I am excited to share in the journey of my internationally educated colleagues as they continue their own journey of development, because I have been a recipient of purposeful support and have witnessed its powerful impact on wellbeing and healthcare, assuring positive patient outcomes.”
Ellen Bull, Interim Chief Nurse, said: “A huge amount of work has been undertaken by our workforce and clinical professional development colleagues to enable us to support our internationally educated nursing and midwifery workforce. Their efforts tie in with our ongoing work towards being a great and safe place to be, where we continually listen, include, empower, and value everyone.
“Our international nurses and midwives bring a range of skills, knowledge and expertise to the organisation, which helps us to deliver high-quality care for our patients.
“Relocating to a different country can be challenging, but I’m pleased that we have been recognised for the work we continued to do to ensure our international colleagues feel welcomed and supported at the Trust.”
