Harrow (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Filipino nurses at Ealing Hospital marked 25 years since the first cohort joined the NHS, celebrating their long-standing contributions to UK healthcare.
Approximately 40,000 Filipinos now work in the NHS, notably at Ealing Hospital, which is operated by London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust.
Sheila Cuesta, who began working at the sanitarium in 2000, is still there, serving as a elderly family in accident and exigency.
Ms Cuesta stated that 56 Filipino nurses arrived at Ealing that time, 19 of whom are still employed.
Ms Cuesta said:
“My colleagues are my second family. I have made a lot of friends here over the years.”
She also mentioned that it took time to adjust to life in Britain.
She said:
“The food and weather took some getting used but I remember when it snowed for the first time. That was just magical.”
What challenges did early Filipino recruits face adapting to UK nursing practices?
Numerous arrived with expansive experience and qualifications but frequently had to repeat instruments or accept lower pay bands, creating frustration over under- recognition of chops and experience. Differences in clinical practices, communication styles, cooperation, and patient prospects posed original walls.
The absence of family support led to insulation, with Filipino nurses counting heavily on community networks for emotional and professional support. Some faced racism and lack of respect from UK associates and other internationally trained nursers, affecting openings and plant integration.
Language barriers and different communication morals occasionally led to misconstructions, affecting platoon effectiveness and case care. enterprises over visa renewals, immigration status, and separation from families added stress, complicating long- term agreement and career planning.
