Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day is celebrated yearly on the first Friday of March because taking care of the sick during long work hours is a noble deed. This year, it falls on March 1. Also, doing so while being far away from one’s own country and having to deal with the red tape, homesickness, and possible culture shock, requires tremendous grit and passion. Yet, this is what many N.H.S. workers from abroad go through as they try to make a living by helping others. Today is the day for the U.K’s medical community to show appreciation, and inclusivity towards their peers from other countries.
History of Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day
The Doctors’ Association U.K. (D.A.U.K.) first inaugurated Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day in 2021 to show support to international healthcare workers, which are from more than 500 nations.
This day was founded because of the many challenges that many international healthcare workers experience in the U.K. They face many bureaucratic and personal challenges while tending to the sick which leaves them feeling demoralized, and often leads to them leaving work and the country.
Many often agree to pay hefty sums to leave their unfulfilling jobs which is part of the bond that most overseas healthcare workers have to sign before they begin work in the U.K., even if they leave their jobs for reasons such as a crisis in the home or a medical emergency.
These conditions combined with non-inclusivity and long work hours have started deterring potential healthcare professionals from across the globe from working for the N.H.S.
With this appreciation day, the U.K’s healthcare system aims to recognize the contribution of the international workforce and also seeks to improve their working conditions. This day intends to bring a sense of community to the people who are far away from their own country.
Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day timeline
The National Health Service is established by Aneurin Bevan, making healthcare free for all.
Mass jabs for polio and diphtheria are introduced.
A law is passed legalizing abortion up to 28 weeks of pregnancy if presented a mental or physical risk to the mother.
An organ register is created to coordinate the availability and demand of donated organs.
Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day FAQs
How many foreigners are in the N.H.S?
About 190,000 workers of 1.3 million N.H.S. staff are non-British.
What is the most popular job in the N.H.S?
Nursing Assistant is the most popular N.H.S. job.
Can you work for N.H.S. without a degree?
It depends on the job that you’re applying for.
Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day Activities
Show appreciation
If you know someone who works in the healthcare industry, show your appreciation for them with simple words of gratitude, a cup of coffee, tea, or some sweet treats. They’ll surely appreciate it.
Spread awareness
There are many issues faced by overseas N.H.S. workers. Voice your concerns to help improve the work condition. Wearing blue-green is also a way of spreading awareness.
Be inclusive
Create a welcoming environment for foreigners by involving them in social activities. Inclusivity breeds positivity.
5 Interesting Facts About Healthcare
100% care
The N.H.S. provides medical coverage to 100% of the U.K’s population, which is currently 67 million.
Total expenditure
The U.K. government spent a total of £214.4 billion in 2018 on medical facilities.
£3,227 per person
The British government spent an average of £3,227 on every person in the year 2018.
10% G.D.P.
The U.K. government spent 10% of the G.D.P. on healthcare in 2018.
Long waits
Because healthcare in the U.K. is state-funded, patients can expect a lengthy wait to get an appointment with even a general physician.
Why We Love Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day
Healthcare is the backbone of a country
Healthcare is a vital service to a country’s people. Having enough staff to support this system is essential to keep it functional.
It’s an opportunity to show gratitude
Giving thanks is one way of encouraging the efforts of others. Showing your appreciation to Overseas N.H.S. workers is an easy way to show support for the work they do.
It celebrates different cultures
People from across the world bring with them the culture of their homeland. This makes the world a more interesting place to live in.
Overseas N.H.S. Workers Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | March 4 | Friday |
| 2023 | March 3 | Friday |
| 2024 | March 1 | Friday |
| 2025 | March 7 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 6 | Friday |
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