In a world where the healthcare sector constantly faces challenges, the role of nurses becomes increasingly critical. At the heart of Askham Village Community lies a profound commitment not just to healthcare excellence but to the professional and personal growth of each of our nurses. Our revised vision not only embraces our core values of Community, Empowerment, Respect, Dignity and Quality but also sets a new benchmark in supporting overseas nurses through their journey to NMC accreditation.
This blog dives into the essence of our approach, illuminating the paths of success we’ve paved for sponsored nurses, reflecting our dedication during National Apprenticeship Week and beyond it, as well as showcasing the real-life impact of our initiatives.
Nurturing the backbone of patient care
At Askham Village Community, we know that nurses are the cornerstone of patient care, providing essential support, compassion, leadership and expertise. Together with our existing skilled nurses, our sponsored nurses bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge, enriching the healthcare landscape with their unique perspectives and expertise during what is now a nationally recognised nursing crisis across the UK. However, the process of obtaining a PIN (Practice Identification Number) can be complex and daunting, requiring them to meet stringent regulatory standards and undergo rigorous assessments to ensure they are fit to practice. As such, it is essential to implement initiatives and support systems that facilitate their transition and empower them to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.
Askham’s approach
Askham Village Community, with its deeply ingrained ethos of Community, Empowerment, Respect, Dignity and Quality, has taken a stand. We’re not just observing from the sidelines; we’re actively revising our vision to support these heroes through their NMC accreditation. Our approach consists in having a comprehensive package of training, mentorship and peer support networks, thoughtfully designed to ease the transition for sponsored nurses. This initiative isn’t just about fulfilling a need — it’s about celebrating the spirit of National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering professional growth.
Real stories, real impact
Each story told by our overseas nurses makes us continue to stay committed to our role, as their journey on this new path can be so overwhelming.
Seth, one of our newly qualified nurses, expressed deep thanks to Askham for supporting his journey to accreditation. Seth referred to the effort he had made during this process to fund and prepare for his OSCE’s and CBT and feels a sense of pride around his achievement. We couldn’t be prouder!
Another team member, Ponni, who has recently gained their PIN echoed Seth’s feeling of support, lauding the comprehensive support system that stretches from our Operation Director, Aliyyah-Begum Nasser, to her Lead Nurse, Bev Contaoi. In the end, this directly reflects the community element of our ethos values.
A framework for success
Discussing the framework we have established for the success of our nurses, we truly value the power of mentorship; peer support programmes also play a pivotal role in supporting sponsored nurses on their journey to obtaining their PIN. Pairing them with skilled and experienced nurse mentors who can provide guidance, advice and emotional support can significantly alleviate the challenges they may encounter. Additionally, fostering a sense of camaraderie through peer support networks allows sponsored nurses to connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering a supportive community where they can seek advice, share resources and celebrate achievements.
Aleena, another newly qualified nurse from Askham, shared with us that she had always dreamed of being a registered nurse in the UK and that she is overjoyed to be able to continue working with her mentors in a role she is passionate about and loves.
Patience reiterated Seth, Aleena and Ponni’s feelings and stated that she is thrilled to be practicing as a nurse in the UK. She highlighted that the Askham Village Community has worked as a community to ensure and support her success and that she is excited to be able to continue her chosen career with Askham.
Beyond National Apprenticeship Week
Our vision at Askham Village Community aligns seamlessly with the apprenticeship model’s key values, emphasising the importance of tailored orientation programmes, mentorship, competency frameworks, training and peer support.
Our approach of supporting sponsored nurses on their journey to obtaining their PIN is imperative for our healthcare system. By providing our team members with access to tailored orientation programmes, mentorship opportunities, competency frameworks, training and peer support networks, we can empower sponsored nurses to thrive in their new roles, enriching our healthcare system with their diverse perspectives and expertise to support both our own and our wider community.
As we work towards building a more resilient and inclusive healthcare workforce, we are proud to recognise the invaluable contributions of sponsored nurses and commit to providing them with the support they need to succeed.
Our continuous commitment to excellence
It indeed takes a village to nurture and empower nursing talent and, at Askham Village Community, we’re living this truth every day. Our dedication to empowering sponsored nurses extends beyond National Apprenticeship Week, reflecting a year-round commitment to excellence and growth. By championing the success of each nurse, we’re not just enhancing patient care; we’re shaping the future of healthcare in the UK.
Join us in celebrating the incredible journey of sponsored nurses at Askham Village Community and the bright future that lies ahead, not just for them, but for the entire healthcare sector.