In conversation with internationally educated nurses - 'The Journey of an IEN'

Join us as we launch a series of short films detailing first-hand accounts from IENs on their experience of moving to the UK, having been educated overseas.

The number of internationally educated nursing staff (IENs) coming to the UK continues to rise. Over half of new nurses joining the NMC register for the first-time were internationally educated . The RCN recognises the enormous contribution IENs make to health and social care, and the particular challenges they face before and while they are working in the UK.

Throughout 2023, we have conducted several interviews, developed into short films with IENs to gain a deeper insight into their journey to, and life in the UK.

Join us as we launch these uplifting short films during an event which will showcase detailed first-hand accounts from IENs on their experience of moving to the UK, having been educated overseas. The short films highlight the challenges that came with moving and how many of them were met with solutions from RCN membership. These films bring to light fascinating stories surrounding challenges with visas, contracts, examinations, relocation, understanding the UK health system and NMC, language barriers, and adjusting to the UK weather. We hope these stories of lived experience will provide a deeper understanding of the IEN experience to a wider audience.

We’ll be joined by three of our film contributors, who will be on hand to answer any questions you have during a live Q&A. The event will be hosted by Nicola Ranger (RCN Chief Nurse) and Nichola Ashby (Deputy Director of Nursing). We’d like to thank all our IEN members who appeared in the film.