17th July 2025
[Blog post]
Relocating to the UK was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It was my first international trip and the first time I’d travelled alone. I came from India, not knowing what to expect, and everything felt unfamiliar.
I arrived in September 2018 without a jacket, not realising how cold it would be. But the hardest part wasn’t the weather - it was being away from my family. There were nights I cried loudly, missing home, feeling lonely, and wondering if I’d made the right decision. It wasn’t easy.
My first line manager was incredibly kind and approachable. She made me feel welcome from the very beginning, and the team was supportive. But like any journey, there were challenges too.
I still remember my very first shift in the UK. A patient asked for a “sick bowl,” and I had no idea what that meant. In India, we use the term “vomit bowl,” so I was confused. There were a few instances like this that set back my confidence but I took it as a lesson, learned every bit of terminology I could, and worked hard. Within a year, I became the deputy manager of the same unit. That experience, though painful, became part of the strength that shaped who I am today.
One of the most touching experiences I’ve had was while working on Ward L1 has been caring for a tracheostomy patient. Although he has sadly passed away, I still remember his face and the bond we shared. His family would call the unit every morning to check on him, and whenever they heard I was on shift, they’d say, “We know he’s in good hands—we’re not worried.” That kind of trust meant the world to me.
During that time, I was promoted to Clinical Change Lead Nurse for the e-roster system. While my colleagues were happy for me, it was my patients and their families who truly made me feel the impact of my care. The patient, though unable to speak, cried when he found out I was leaving. His family brought me a gift that said “One in a million” and even organised a farewell celebration for the whole unit. He wrote that he considered me like a daughter - and that touched me deeply. It’s a moment I will carry in my heart forever.
What I love most about working at the NCA is the sense of purpose and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. It’s a place where hard work is recognised, growth is supported, and diversity is truly valued. I’ve had the chance to learn, lead, and be part of a team that genuinely cares—not just about patients, but about each other too.
The journey hasn’t always been easy, but the NCA has given me the platform to turn challenges into achievements, and for that, I’m truly grateful.
Living and working in the UK has been a beautiful experience - full of learning, growth, and new opportunities. I’ve come to appreciate the systems, the work culture, and the diversity here. But at the same time, my heart still belongs to India. That’s where my roots are, and I miss the warmth of home, my family, and the little things that make India special to me
Currently, I’m proud to be working as the Digital Lead Nurse for the entire NCA, with a particular focus on managing the BadgerNet maternity system. Each step has brought new responsibilities and opportunities to make a wider impact, and I’m grateful for the support and trust I’ve received along the way.
Find out more
We’re proud to sponsor skilled health and care professionals from overseas. To make the move easier, we offer support at every point of the recruitment and onboarding process - including inviting new recruits to a Peer Support Facebook group. In this group, colleagues like Akhila share tips and encouragement to help new team members navigate relocation and settle into their new role at the NCA.
If you're interested in joining the NCA from overseas, or want to learn more about our sponsorship process and support for international professionals, please visit our dedicated international recruitment webpage.
