Benefits of joining diaspora associations for internationally educated nursing staff

Collaboration: RCN London - Outer North West Branch, NHS England International Nurses and Midwives Association INMA

Nobody can deny that internationally educated nurses (IENs) make a significant contribution to the health services in the UK, both in the NHS and private sector. However, IENs face considerable challenges: the primary concerns being integrating professionally and communication difficulties. Many also report facing discrimination, racism and lack of acknowledgement of their previous expertise. 

IENs thrive when they receive additional culturally sensitive support (emotional, psychological and professional) from their diaspora groups. This Learning and Wellbeing event aims to make nursing staff aware of the existence as well as the powerful achievements of the members of these national nurses' associations across the UK.

At the end of this session the delegates will have a greater awareness of:

• the existence and purpose of diaspora associations and their contact details
• the achievements of the leaders / members of diaspora organisations
• details of the support that is available to IENs and how they can be involved