7 March is Overseas NHS Workers Day. West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership honours and says ‘thank you’ to our thousands of internationally educated colleagues who dedicate their skills, compassion and resilience to West Yorkshire. Our international workforce is made up of 'experts in our midst' – colleagues with global knowledge, experience and connections that help shape innovative approaches to reducing health inequalities, providing outstanding care and improving people’s health and wellbeing.
A history of global contribution
Since the formation of the NHS in 1948, overseas workers have been instrumental in its success. In the post-war years, as the UK rebuilt itself, professionals from across the Commonwealth answered the call to serve. From the Windrush generation of Caribbean nurses to healthcare professionals from South Asia, Africa and beyond, international staff have long been the backbone of our healthcare system.
Today, this legacy continues, with overseas workers making up a significant portion of the NHS workforce. Around 11% of NHS staff in West Yorkshire report a nationality other than British. In West Yorkshire we are privileged to work alongside thousands of colleagues from countries such as India, the Philippines, Nigeria, and beyond.
West Yorkshire as a good global citizen
West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership is a system of sanctuary, where we value everyone who works and lives in West Yorkshire for who they are, what they do, and the diverse skills, backgrounds, knowledge and expertise they bring. As a partnership we aim to be a good global citizen that respects and values different societies and cultures. We are committed to working in an ethical, sustainable and inclusive way to develop health and social care and tackle challenges faced in West Yorkshire and beyond.
Our West Yorkshire Global Partnerships team is actively engaged in collaborations around the world, sharing knowledge, supporting healthcare development and learning from international best practices. Working in global partnerships allows us to offer high-quality educational opportunities to our staff, helping them develop their skills, cultural awareness and leadership potential while improving outcomes and experiences of care and support. This work enables a two-way transfer of knowledge and skills, benefiting both our colleagues in West Yorkshire and our global partners. We are supported in our work by the NHS England Global Health Partnerships team.
One of our proudest partnerships is with Kerala, India. Kerala has long been known for its excellence in healthcare and education, and many colleagues hail from this vibrant region.
Colleagues from Kerala making a difference in West Yorkshire
Sajan Sathyan, Deputy Chief Nurse at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, is originally from Kerala.
“When I began my nursing career in Kerala, I never imagined the path it would take me on. Like many internationally educated nurses, I made the life-changing decision to move to the UK, driven by ambition, a passion for healthcare, and the hope of building a better future for myself and my family.” Sajan reflects.
His early days in the UK were not without challenges – adapting to a new healthcare system, overcoming cultural differences and proving his capabilities in a fast-paced environment. But through perseverance, he not only succeeded but rose to leadership, advocating for other internationally educated nurses and founding the Alliance of Senior Kerala Nurses (ASKEN).
Since 2018 over 700 nurses from Kerala have come to work in West Yorkshire, along with hundreds more from other countries, bringing their unique knowledge, skills and experience.
Sajan’s message to all our internationally educated colleagues is, “Your potential is limitless. Push yourself, seek mentorship, build strong networks and never let challenges define your capabilities. West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership is richer because of the diversity and dedication we bring to it.”
A message of appreciation
On this special occasion, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all internationally educated healthcare professionals working across West Yorkshire and beyond. Your dedication, skill and passion are deeply valued, and we are proud to stand alongside you in delivering compassionate, world-class care.
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