Hospital is given praise for its support of internationally educated staff

West Suffolk Hospital has been awarded the NHS Pastoral Care Quality Award for its care of internationally educated staff.

The West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust has received praise for supporting internationally educated staff such as nurses and midwives. The award is in recognition of the Trust’s commitment to providing ‘high-quality’ pastoral care for internationally educated staff.

The award showcases the Trust’s support and appreciation of international colleagues and the unique contribution they bring to the organisation.

The award, launched in March 2022 by NHS England and NHS Improvement, helps standardise the quality and delivery of pastoral are across England.

Diane Last, head of clinical education at the Trust, and her education team colleagues, Gill Cooksey and John Songkip, along with Sophie Riley from the recruitment team, have been singled out for praise for their impressive commitment to the career development and pastoral wellbeing of their colleagues from around the world. Ms. Last commented “I am so proud that the team has been given this award.”

The award showcases the Trust’s support and appreciation of international colleagues and the unique contribution they bring to the organisation.

Diane Last said, “We work extraordinarily hard to provide support during both the recruitment process and then transition into employment.

“The support includes weekly meetings for staff before joining to ensure a smooth transition; local housing advice and signposting for those bringing family and loved ones; a colleague buddy system and programmes to promote professional development.”

Jeremy Over, director of workforce and communications, and Sue Wilkinson, chief nurse, at West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are delighted to have been highlighted within the region and recognised for the pastoral care we provide for our international colleagues. We cannot express the appreciation we have for our internationally educated staff, and the talent, dedication and enthusiasm they bring to the Trust every day.

“Our recruitment and education teams work extremely hard to ensure those joining the Trust from overseas receive a warm welcome, and are supported as they begin their career in the NHS. Additionally, these teams work closely with them to make sure they feel cared for and benefit from as many career development opportunities as possible.”

 

By Alasdair English