HCSA is proud to support the first ever Overseas NHS workers day in recognition of the many different nationalities currently working in our health services.
The day is dedicated to recognising and celebrating those who have migrated to the UK to join the NHS frontline in the battle against Covid-19.
However, despite their invaluable contributions and commitments during the pandemic many still face uncertainty about their fate in the UK.
HCSA President Dr Claudia Paoloni said: "NHS staff have united as one to deliver a pandemic response which has rightly been lauded far and wide, so it is outrageous that thousands of overseas colleagues involved in that response still face an uncertain future due to government reluctance to grant indefinite leave to remain.
“The greater insult lies in the fact these individuals need to make the ultimate sacrifice and die in service for their families to qualify. The current situation is the equivalent of saying ‘thanks, and close the door on the way out’ and does them and the country a disservice. This national injustice could be resolved swiftly if there was the will, and we urge the government to show that will.
"Overseas NHS Workers Day aims to shine a light on the immense contribution of these individuals at a time when the authorities appear unwilling to do the right and moral thing.”
Almost 200 different nationalities are represented within the NHS in England. The majority of staff are British but almost 14% are non-British, with the highest numbers being Indian, Filipino and Irish. Some 67,000 members of staff are nationals of other EU countries.
Overseas NHS workers day is organised by Doctors' Association UK with support from HCSA, the Royal College of Physicians,the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO), British International Doctors Association (BIDA), the Royal College of Surgeons and Unison.