Why choose Sanctuary International to progress your nursing or midwifery career?
We understand that it is a big step to move to the UK as an international nurse or midwife. After all, there’s a quite a lot to think about from considering UK living costs, sorting VISAs and other documentation to finding somewhere to live and arranging flights. That’s why, for all our successful international applicants, we do everything we can to make relocating to the UK as smooth as possible.
We believe that your journey should be an exciting one that you feel in control of. Therefore, our support starts from the moment you reach out to us. Managing the process at every step of the way, you’ll never feel lost. We will keep you updated on progress our end, maintain close communications with your future employer and advise you on all of compliance and documentation requirements, VISA applications, booking your OSCE, helping you find suitable accommodation, arranging flights and even meeting you at the airport!
Essentially, we’re here to assist you with every single aspect of your relocation, and beyond!
Read more about requirements for overseas workers.
Total UK coverage
As one of the largest healthcare recruiters in the UK, we are trusted by NHS Trusts and private healthcare organisations to find suitably qualified international nurses and midwives.
With over 190 NHS Trusts relying on us to fill a wide variety of healthcare positions, more and more of our clients are turning to us to recruit international nurses, whose skills and experience are highly appreciated.
A single point of contact
One of our specialist consultants will guide you through the entire relocation process, from securing your interview to assisting you with obtaining the right English language skills required to practice in the UK.
We’ll only ever present you with employment opportunities that we feel will be of benefit to you. There are a wide range of available roles for you to consider. It’s our job to find the right one for you, and in a geographic area you’ll be happy to call home.
Why work in the UK?
The UK is one of the most attractive countries to practice as an international nurse or midwife. We know this because we have placed lots of overseas workers into great roles, and every single one of them has gone on to progress in their career.
With attractive rates of pay, learning opportunities, and good career opportunities, moving to the UK for work is exciting, and very much the start of a new journey.
Start your journey today
We care about finding you that perfect nursing or midwifery job in a place you’d love to settle in. We find you positions that we know are a direct match to your experience, knowledge and skills. Simply upload your CV to get started.
What our candidates say about us
Sanctuary International played a big part in helping us to pursue our dreams to work and live in the UK. Our deepest gratitude to the team for taking care of our application. Everything went smoothly and we are proud for making the right decision in choosing Sanctuary International as our agency. Thank you for your guidance and support.
Mary
Staff Nurse
Sanctuary International played a big part in helping us to pursue our dreams to work and live in the UK. Our deepest gratitude to the team for taking care of our application. Everything went smoothly and we are proud for making the right decision in choosing Sanctuary International as our agency. Thank you for your guidance and support.
Mary
Staff Nurse
I would like to thank Sanctuary International for helping and guiding me during the entire process. I appreciate all the time and efforts that you have put in to help me reach my UK dream. I will definitely recommend my friends to your recruitment team when they need to find a job in the UK.
Hazel
Staff Nurse
I would like to thank Sanctuary International for helping us achieve our dream to live and work in the UK. It was a smooth process. Everybody was helpful during the application. Again, Thank you so much Sanctuary International.
Mary
Staff Nurse
Keep updated on the latest news
Like you, we like to keep on top of the advances being made in healthcare. Light and easy to read, you’ll find our international blog a great source of information.
A Nurse's Journey From The Philippines
Introduction:At Sanctuary Personnel, we are committed to connecting passionate registered nurses with opportunities that advance their careers and also fulfil their personal aspirations. Our success stories highlight the transformative journey of individuals who have relocated internationally to pursue their dreams. We are excited to share the inspiring story of Romliet Dayrut Guina, an international nurse who originates from the Philippines and has joined the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.How did you discover Sanctuary Personnel?I was referred to Sanctuary Personnel by another agency. I was with this agency during an unsuccessful relocation to Northern Ireland, which then led to being referred to Sanctuary.How was the initial application process?Owen Dunn, my specialist recruitment consultant on international relocations, made the process simply amazing! It was a smooth transition from start to finish. Owen knew I wanted to come to the UK during the July 2023 cohort from the first time we began speaking in May 2023. He was very proactive in submitting me to roles in the UK and chasing my compliance documents.How was the relocation process?The whole turnaround was extremely prompt and fast-moving due to my visa expiring in Kuwait. I was interviewed in early June and by the middle of July 2023, I had achieved my dream and was living and working in the UK.Did you come over with any family or friends?Working in Northern Ireland initially took my interest because my best friend lived there. However, I came to England and a few months later, my husband joined me, and soon my children will be joining us too.Why did you wish to relocate to England to become a nurse?I originate from the Philippines and then relocated to Kuwait to work as a nurse. Whilst working in Kuwait, my best friend recommended Northern Ireland as a relocation destination as the cost of living was much more affordable. As previously mentioned, my visa was expiring, so I thought, why not?What made you choose Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust?When given the options for which NHS Trusts I could choose from, I carefully considered them all, but my decision came down to which area had the best community and which trust valued my international experience the most. For me, this was University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.What was your first day like at Birmingham NHS Trust?Like any first day in a new role, it was a bit scary and daunting, but as soon as I met my colleagues, I felt at ease. They were very accepting and welcoming, which made me feel like I wasn’t the ‘new person’. My manager was very attentive and dealt with any issues in a kind and respectful manner, and was genuinely a lovely person to work with.Did you go through any training when you started? What was it like?Yes. When I first arrived, I attended OSCE (Observed Structured Clinical Examination) boot camp. This lasted 3 weeks and it prepared me for the OSCE exam. Before my first official day, I had a clinical induction which allowed me to understand the department and how I would fit into it.If there was one thing you could have changed about the whole process, what would that be?I don't believe there is anything I’d change! Sanctuary has been wonderful and very helpful. From my initial contact with Owen up until I started my OSCE training, Sanctuary has always been there for me and ready to answer any questions. Even after starting, Owen has always been readily available and responsive.What would you say to someone considering relocation to the UK as a nurse?Go for it! People ask me if I regret moving here and I always answer no, as I am so much happier here. I love how well the UK prioritises work-life balance and the people are lovely and polite.
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5 Reasons to Consider Relocating to Australia as a Nurse
Relocating to the other side of the world might sound like a daunting proposition, but the benefits of doing so are many and varied! Australia is brimming with opportunities, both from a professional and personal perspective and offers a fantastic work-life balance to those who take the plunge.In this post, we'll look at five reasons why moving to Australia might be just the move you're looking for as a Registered Nurse. So, without further ado, let's head down under.1. Incredible Work OpportunitiesIf you're looking for rewarding work (in every sense), look no further than Australia. With highly competitive salaries available in healthcare roles (typically complete with generous annual leave packages), you can rest assured knowing that, in Australia, your contributions will be highly valued. Nurses are highly in demand in Australia, with fantastic opportunities nationwide. As a nurse, you'll work in one of the world's finest healthcare systems.In fact, according to CEOWorld's Health Care Index (2023), Australia has the 3rd best healthcare system in the world! For context, the US ranked 15th, whilst the UK ranked only 27th. So, not only will you provide stellar levels of care, but you'll also be able to access it for yourself.2. Stunning Natural BeautyAustralia features some genuinely jaw-dropping natural scenery from the Great Barrier Reef to Uluru and Shark Bay to the Twelve Apostles. Whether you're keen to get your surfer on along the coastline or are eager to explore the literal millions of square kilometres of outback, there's something in Australia for every outdoors-lover.The country hosts a diverse array of flora and fauna, and not all are as scary as you might think! Yes, there are snakes, spiders, and sharks, but there are also koalas, kangaroos, and arguably the cutest animal known to man: quokkas! Australia is known for its arid outback, but it also has lush and verdant vegetation, too.The vast size of the country means that there's virtually every kind of landscape imaginable. You name it, Australia has it. People always tout the USA as being somewhere that you never have to leave whilst still being able to explore different landscapes and geographical worlds. Australia is no different, however!3. A Life in the SunThere's no denying that, in comparison with the UK, Australia has superior weather. And whilst there are more temperate parts of the country, like Melbourne for example, which is known to boast "four seasons in a day", if you want sun all year round, then there are parts of Australia where that's the reality – Perth is actually the sunniest city in the world.Unsurprisingly, people want to get away from the bleak, dreary and often downright depressing climate we have here in the UK – particularly in winter, and Australia offers that dose of vitamin D we all crave in abundance. Combine that weather with idyllic beaches, and it proves to be an understandably irresistible combination.4. Active Lifestyles EncouragedWith the world's best natural playground on your doorstep, it's no wonder that Australians love getting active as much as they do. Snorkelling in azure waters, trekking through the bush, skiing down the slopes (yes, you can ski in Australia!), you can do it all! Whatever floats your surfboard!Would you rather surf or swim in warm blue Australian waters or freezing cold British seas with rain pouring down all around – we know which we'd choose!5. Cities Bursting with Culture and a Rich History Throughout the CountryAustralia has some of the world's best cities, with Melbourne having previously ranked as the world's most liveable city between 2011 and 2017 (source: ABC News). The Sydney Opera House, Melbourne's International Comedy Festival and the National Gallery of Australia are all examples of the cultural heft that Australia's cities have.It's a country that's rich in history, too, both in its more recent history and in the pre-colonial history of its indigenous populations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples). Australia is a vibrant, energetic country populated by warm-hearted and welcoming people. It's a can-do country, a nation that prefers its glass to be half full rather than half empty.Start on Your Relocation Journey Today!So, if you're a nurse and this has piqued your Australian interest, contact Sanctuary Personnel today! We have a wide range of nursing roles available in Australia; just waiting for you to apply for them. The question is, what are you waiting for?
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Why are So Many Healthcare Professionals Going Overseas? Push and Pull Factors
For the longest time, the UK has had a healthcare sector to be immensely proud of. And whilst that's still the case regarding the people working within the field, the system itself is undeniably creaking at the seams. This has led many doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals to look further afield for their professional work, with Australia and New Zealand being trendy choices. In this post, we'll be exploring the various push and pull factors leading the country's healthcare professionals to look elsewhere and investigating what's being done to bolster staff retention.Push FactorsWhenever we talk about emigration or immigration, we can view it through the lens of push and pull factors. These are the things actively pulling us towards somewhere (these are generally positive aspects) as well as those things pushing us away from an area (more often, these are negative things).The main push factors at the minute for UK healthcare professionals are: Poor payStressful working conditions (leading to burnout)Inadequate work-life balancePoor PayMoney talks and a job's salary plays a big part in deciding whether it's worth persisting with or not. Being a doctor or a nurse is a highly demanding job which deserves an appropriately generous compensation package. However, many healthcare professionals in the country don't believe that that's what they receive. There have been regular strikes throughout 2023, with disputes over pay being the leading cause. According to the Nuffield Trust, junior doctors in their first year of practice in the UK earn a basic salary of £32,397, with estimated average earnings of £41,300. This discrepancy between basic pay and estimated average earnings is because most junior doctors work additional (and often unsociable) hours and often receive more money if they live in expensive parts of the country like London. Many believe that this isn't an adequate pay-off for the hours and effort being put in. Particularly when, factoring in inflation over the past 15 years or so, doctors have received, in real terms, a pay cut. Stressful Working Conditions/BurnoutHealthcare professionals are already thought to be more likely to experience burnout than other professionals due to the emotionally taxing, highly stressful jobs they perform. This was especially the case during the Coronavirus pandemic. However, there are indications that this wasn't just a pandemic issue.Burnout is categorised by three main symptoms: emotional exhaustion, feelings of job detachment and a lack of accomplishment/a feeling of ineffectiveness.The heavy workloads that healthcare professionals have are often a cause of burnout, as is frequent overtime, inadequate resources, and the emotional labour that healthcare work involves, to name just a few. These pressures are difficult enough to deal with at the best of times. Then, when you factor in just how much the NHS is struggling, you can understand why burnout levels amongst healthcare professionals are so high and why this might lead people to look to countries with more manageable workloads.170,000 NHS staff left the service due to the stress last year, and whilst not all of those will be going overseas to work, there's no doubt that a considerable number will be. As far as push factors go, this is a big one.Inadequate Work-Life BalanceThis is linked to the above but relates explicitly to unsustainable and skewed work-life balances. Information from Statista shows that, in 2022, over 40% of NHS workers worked as many as five hours of unpaid overtime in an average week.Doctors, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare professionals want to be able to redress the scales and cultivate a more balanced lifestyle. Other countries can often provide that with their healthcare setups, and it's easy to see why that's an attractive proposition.Pull FactorsNow that we've addressed the push factors let's look at what's attracting healthcare professionals elsewhere from a pull perspective. And it's not just junior doctors heading to distant climes either; senior doctors and surgeons are moving, too. The main pull factors include:More attractive payBetter working conditionsImproved quality of lifeMore Attractive PayUndoubtedly, one of the biggest reasons doctors, nurses and other healthcare employees are looking overseas is the higher pay they can expect. Comparing the UK and Australia, for example, and in some cases, doctors can expect to earn double what they do here.Speaking to the Guardian, the British Medical Association consultants' committee's deputy chair, Simon Walsh, said he'd heard of consultants being offered figures "approaching four times [the UK salary]". In 2021 and 2022, there were 12,526 requests for certificates of good standing from the GMC.These certificates help prove to medical providers and regulators in other countries that the professional with the document is in good standing with the General Medical Council. It doesn't specify where a doctor may be thinking about going. However, it shows how many people are considering practising overseas, even if they don't go through with it. Better Working ConditionsIf the healthcare system in the UK currently is a pressure cooker, then healthcare systems in countries like Australia are simmering slow cookers, by contrast. The former is highly intense and unsustainable, whilst the latter has work going along at a much more manageable level.The food still gets cooked, or the work still gets done, but there's much less risk of reaching that explosive point of no return. The job is still stressful at times and remains emotionally taxing; however, in many overseas healthcare settings, those more difficult periods come in waves rather than as a full-on, non-stop barrage.By comparison, that heightened, frenetic state is the default, 24/7 in the UK at the minute. Nobody expects healthcare professions to be without difficulties, and the very nature of the work means it will take it out of the practitioners. However, that's easier to cope with if it differs from what you always deal with. Improved Quality of LifeThe countries that British doctors and nurses are typically headed to have another thing in common. They offer improved quality of life and work-life balance. Think about the doctor who goes to Australia to work fewer hours for as good (if not better) pay and who can clock off at a reasonable hour and then pop down to the beach for a stroll or a surf. It's an enticing thought.Or the doctor who wants to go to the Middle East and experience a completely different culture. There's undoubtedly an element of "the grass is always greener" thinking going on here, but when the stresses are as significant as they are in the UK healthcare sector, currently – when the push factors are as substantial as they are – then the pull factors don't even need to be that attractive; the fact that they are only cements the attraction further.What's Being Done for Staff Retention?So, what is the UK doing to retain its healthcare professionals? A couple of months ago, the government agreed on a pay rise in which:First-year doctors in training have received a 10.3% pay rise.Junior doctors, on average, have received an 8.8% increase.Consultants have received a 6% pay rise. The government also announced a recruitment and retention drive, including more flexible working options and career development options.Browse Our Healthcare Roles!So, there you have it: the push and pull factors determining why doctors, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare professionals are looking overseas for work rather than staying here in the UK.Here at Sanctuary Personnel, we can help find the healthcare roles that are right for you, both domestically and internationally, so get in touch!
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6 reasons to work in the UK
Thinking of working in the UK? You’re not alone. One in six NHS staff in England report a nationality other than British. If you're looking to enhance your health or social work career, the UK is a fantastic choice. Here are just a few reasons why: 1. Job opportunitiesThe UK has a high demand for social workers and healthcare staff, which means there are plenty of job openings for those with the right qualifications and experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after 4 years. 2. You'll be well taken care ofSocial workers and healthcare staff in the UK are compensated well for their work. Salaries are competitive, and you'll benefit from paid annual leave, maternity pay, sick pay, and pension contributions, ensuring a good standard of living during your time here. You’ll also receive paid annual leave, giving you plenty of time to explore what the UK has to offer: Experience fun for all the family at attractions such as LEGOLAND and Chessington World of Adventures Explore the past at National Trust locations, Buckingham Palace, and Stonehenge Visit Europe – it’s easy and affordable, and you can be in Paris or Barcelona within a couple of hours! 3.Continuous learning and developmentUK employers, particularly the NHS, are known for its high-quality training and development opportunities. This includes ongoing professional development programmes, as well as the opportunity to study for additional qualifications. This means you can always stay up to date with the latest developments and advancements in your field and can further enhance your skills and knowledge as a professional. 4. A diverse and multicultural environmentThe UK is a diverse society, and you'll have the opportunity to work alongside colleagues from all kinds of backgrounds. This can be an incredibly enriching experience and allow you to develop a broad understanding of different cultures and perspectives. Additionally, it can help you to understand the unique needs and requirements of different patient groups and further support your professional development. 5. Cutting-edge healthcareThe NHS is a publicly funded healthcare system that provides free healthcare to all residents in the UK, regardless of their income or immigration status. Candidates that we relocate with sponsorship are entitled to full NHS services. You can receive comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical conditions and treatments. This includes everything from preventative care and general health check-ups to specialist care and advanced treatments. 6. Quality of lifeThe UK offers a great quality of life, with a rich culture, history, and diverse geography. From the mountains of Scotland to the beaches of Cornwall, there's a lot to explore. And with great public transport, it's easy to get around. In short, the UK is a fantastic place to work in health or social work. With competitive pay, great training and development opportunities, and a diverse culture, it's an ideal place to take your career to the next level. No matter whether you’ve only just started to think about moving to the UK, or are further along in the process but haven’t found the right job, register with Sanctuary International today to find out how we can help.
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Understanding UK Tax
There are four types of taxes you will need to pay when living and working in the UK. These are VAT, Income Tax, National Insurance and Council Tax. Let’s jump in! How do UK taxes work?The tax rate in the UK is set and collected by His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC). This organisation is responsible for calculating the tax rate and collecting taxes. HMRC is also responsible for providing funds for UK public services such as child benefits, housing benefits, and income support. Income TaxThis is payable on any money you earn above your personal allowance (a threshold set by the UK government). The UK uses a progressive tax system - this means that you pay a higher tax rate the more income you make. Any income above your personal allowance is taxed at 20%, and the next portion is taxed at a higher rate, and so on. As you earn more income, the tax rate becomes progressively higher. To find out how much your personal allowance will be, please visit HMRC’s website.The amount of tax you pay can be reduced by tax relief if you qualify. Your employer will deduct your tax payments directly from your wages through PAYE (Pay As You Earn). However, you may need to submit a tax return to HMRC if you collect rent on an overseas property. Again, HMRC will be able to help you. National InsuranceNational Insurance contributions (NICs) are also deducted from your wage through PAYE by your employer and are used to fund pensions, Jobseekers’ Allowance, maternity/paternity benefits, bereavement support and the NHS. The NIC is set up similarly to the income tax, where three income brackets determine how much you must pay monthly. You will not need to pay National Insurance if either of the following apply: You have a Portable Document A1, E101 or E102 that proves you pay National Insurance in another European Economic Area (EEA) country. You have a certificate from a country with a bilateral social security agreement with the UK. Council TaxThis is payable directly to your local council, which funds local services such as waste collection and road management. It is payable whether you own or rent your home. You will need to pay your council tax each month directly, usually by direct debit, although there are cash options too. Your bill will tell you how much to pay, how it has been calculated and when the payment deadlines are. Council tax bills are usually based on two adults sharing a property, and the price you pay will depend on your property’s tax band. If you live alone or are a single parent with a child, you will receive a 25% reduction. More information about council tax valuation bands can be found online.Value Added Tax (VAT)As you settle in the UK, you may notice the letters VAT – this stands for Value Added Tax and is a tax payment on goods and services. VAT is usually charged at 20%, although some goods and services may be as low as 5% or even 0%. Typically, VAT is included in the price that you see within shops.VAT Rate% of VATWhat it applies toStandard Rate20%Majority of goods and services.Reduced Rate5%Some goods and services like child car seats or home energy like heating.Zero Rate0%Some goods and services like children's clothing and most food.Goods deemed essential such as food and children’s clothing are exempt from these taxes to keep prices as affordable as possible. Other services that are still necessary but not as essential or more broadly affect the population, like heating, are subject to the reduced rate. Key things to rememberThe UK tax rate is set by an organisation called HMRC, which is responsible for collecting taxes to fund public services. The four main takes in the UK are income tax, National Insurance, Council Tax, and value-added tax. The UK uses a progressive tax system, meaning you will pay a higher tax rate as your income rises. The UK uses a PAYE system that automatically deducts income tax and national insurance from your monthly wage. Start your journey todayWhether you’ve only just started to think about moving to the UK or simply haven’t found the right job yet, register with Sanctuary to find out how we can help. We look forward to hearing from you!
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6 key attributes to look for in an overseas recruitment agency
Relocating to or from the UK for work is a big step, so it's important you have the right support to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing an overseas recruitment agency: 1. ReputationAn agency's reputation is a good indicator of its quality and reliability. Look for an agency with a good track record of placing candidates in jobs and testimonials to prove this.Sanctuary Personnel’s International division opened its doors for business in 2018 and has successfully placed hundreds of overseas health and social work professionals from all over the globe. 2. Industry expertiseSome agencies specialise in particular industries, such as health and social care. We recommend choosing a specialist agency as they will have experience and connections within that industry. They will also be best placed to make a direct match to your skills, knowledge, experience, and future aspirations. 3. NetworkA good recruitment agency will have a vast network of contacts and connections in various industries and countries. This will give you access to a larger pool of job opportunities and increase your chances of finding a suitable role. As a truly global network, we have dedicated worldwide resourcing partners who support our recruitment and English Language Proficiency. 4. Services offeredDifferent agencies provide different services, such as interview preparation help and comprehensive visa support. Knowledge is key when it comes to compliance - as one of NHS Employers' ethical recruiters, we recruit exclusively from WHO green list countries and ensure we understand each country’s processes. 5. Pastoral careDuring the job search and application process, you may have some questions. It's vital that the agency you choose can provide you with the necessary information to start your journey in confidence. As part of our pastoral care offering, we provide candidates with comprehensive relocation support, and our relocation team ensures candidates are looked after at every step, from greeting them at the airport to helping them source household items for their new homes. We also provide a wellbeing service, creating a stress-free experience for candidates and their families. No stone is left unturned for a happy integration into UK working life. 6. Cultural knowledge and adaptabilityFinally, an agency with knowledge about the culture of the country you are moving to and can provide guidance about cultural differences and adaptability will ensure the transition process is as simple as possible. As soon as you make contact with Sanctuary Personnel’s international division, we make it our top priority to find you a role that ticks all the boxes. For more information on relocating to the UK, read our collection of blogs or speak to a member of our international team today.
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Reach out to us
To start the process of finding a UK role, please get in touch with Sanctuary International.
Alternatively, you can browse our international jobs.
