Table of Contents
The Decision to Move to the UK as a Nurse
As we were on our way, I was thinking, that’s it this was the last step of our life-long wishes and from now I’ll start a new story. Also, I’d have professional possibilities, I would work in an organized environment and would keep living as nurse. I wrote down all of our reasons for emigrating in a paper, so I could read it when the situation would become difficult.
The Preparation Stage: Visa, Housing, and More
The preparation took most of my time. I checked the visa requirements for NHS healthcare workers, to double check every document. I had to look for an apartment, which was stressful but eased my nerves for the move. I also opened a bank account, more difficult than I thought as most UK banks demand proof of address. I compiled a checklist of documents, and noted what information I would need for my sim cards, Oyster travel cards and supermarkets.
The Accommodation Section: Hospital Rooms and Shared Houses
Although my stay in hospital accommodation was brief, it was a vital part of my journey as it was my first stop in my UK life – I will never consider that place as my home. Having said that, I moved into a shared house after a few weeks with a mate, which made me so happy having this bit of personal space where I could cook my favourite food and live in a homely environment. Now I knew what it was to be at home away from home but so near!
Experiences and Memories of the First Weeks
During the first few weeks, I got to know the environment around me. I also bought few essentials, like products for daily routines and learned some fine details, for example the bus number, shop opening hours and a lot more. Once I arrived in UK I got myself registered with a general practitioner which was extremely useful. At the same time, I bought a local sim card and felt great that my planning worked well.
At the Same Time, Living in the UK Was Lonely
The worst thing was to be so distant from my loved ones, especially in the evenings. When sadness sought to escape my lips, I and my loved ones reassured me that this too shall pass, that I am just passing through this stage and I would soon forget it.
Expat and Nurse in the UK – The Everyday and More
Gradually I began to see the local lifestyle and environment differently. I especially learned to value simple things like teatime, warm clothes, and polite people. I also became accustomed to life in the UK with its grey and wet weather, and learned about many local customs related to medicine.
My Working Experience in the UK Healthcare System
Though the working experience was challenging at the beginning, it became much more pleasant later. I wrote my curriculum vitae according to the UK standard and began to take a more active part in the nursing community. Especially I received a lot of help from my colleagues, for what I am very thankful. On top of that, I learned to love the annual leave, which is really very generous in the UK. Finally, my professional and personal experience of the migration grew together.
Living Alone in the UK: The Good and Bad
Being at one is a lonely experience in the transition because 365 days became 365 nights. However, the environment was new and I was most definitely the new kid on the block at first and I felt like I was really a stranger living in a strange land. Home had the familiar view, the pronounced tastes and the familiars of the family support. However, the expat community, the interaction with local nurses and the prolonged use of video calls eased homesickness.
My Thoughts Regarding the Future
My ideas about the future are very optimistic once I accepted the surroundings and behaviors. Specifically, I think of the support given by the local people and the community of expatriates. My job is also given and I make the efforts to renew the comfort of home by cooking favorite dishes. Finally, the travel has been very instructive and I pursue my evolution as a nurse.
Some tips for myself (or others who are not from the UK) about their experiences in the UK
Determine visa requirements ahead of time
Create backup copies of important documents, files, and letters
Open a bank account more beneficial in the longer term
Pack favorites snacking foods as a comfort item
Learn about local customs; public holidays in UK, tipping practices, and following the queue on buses and in queues.
The Top Questions For Healthcare Workers Relocating To The UK
Is living in the UK costly? The cost of living in the UK is moderate in general, apart from London which tends to be highly priced.
Can you migrate without a pre-arranged employment? A job offer is needed under most types of visa, although there are ways to get a job after moving to the UK.
How can an aspiring UK migrant hope to prepare? All would-be UK migrants should be aware of the types of visas, attempt to arrange for accommodation, open a bank account and register with a GP.
Discover More: Related Experiences
If you’re dealing with stress or adjustment challenges, you might like: Under Pressure: Managing Stress and Mental Health in the OR
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