A spotlight on our overseas nursing programme

We are shining the spotlight on some of our fantastic PAHT people as part of the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife campaign; and we caught up with Janet Pandit, sister on Locke Ward.

Janet joined us in 2017 through our overseas nursing recruitment programme. Janet is now reflecting on what inspired her to become a nurse, her route into nursing and why she loves her profession.

What inspired you to become a nurse?

I was inspired by my experience in India, where I completed my diploma in nursing. While there, I saw a nun and sister practising compassionate care for sick people. They inspired me to want to make a difference for patients and their families whilst in hospital.

Can you tell us more about your route into nursing?

Having worked as a nurse for 11 years in Oman and now for three years in the UK, I can see the clear difference between the cultures and how we care for our patients. I joined the hospital through the overseas nursing programme which was advertised on the hospital’s Facebook page; I leapt at the opportunity and registered my interest straight away. Firstly, I had to complete an International English Language Test (IELTS) to test my English ability which included reading, writing, listening and speaking tests before passing to the next stage of the programme. Next, I undertook all of the computerised-based training (CBT) exams which gave me an in depth understanding of the hospital’s policies, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines and the care we provide to our patients. In the next stage, I had an interview in India with colleagues from the overseas nursing recruitment team – I was delighted to hear that I was successful following my interview and would be starting a new nursing role in a new country very soon. The support I have received both personally and professionally has been exceptional; from applying for my VISA to work in the UK, settling into the hospital and my new surroundings, home life support and progressing into my next pay band and role – I cannot thank those involved enough.

What would you say to someone who is considering a career in nursing?

Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers you can have. It can be a hard and challenging role at times, however you are playing an important role within the community and have made a huge difference to your patients’ journey and care. I can guarantee that you will feel immensely proud at the end of each day.