A RECRUITMENT drive has been launched to recruit 40 new nurses from abroad in Gloucestershire.

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (GHNHSFT) launched the drive this week aimed at bringing in qualified nurses from overseas who don’t have UK registration to practice nursing in this country.

Likely candidates could be healthcare assistants working in local care settings or nursing homes.

Under the training programme successful applicants would earn £16,633 per annum until registration is achieved and then a Band 5 salary (£21,692 to £28,180 per annum pro rata) once registered.

Successful applicants will receive training and support (International English Language Testing System as well as Nursing and Midwifery Council registration including the OSCE exam) and be based across Cheltenham General Hospital and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

Eve Russell, assistant director of HR, added: “Successful applicants will work at band two level while on the training programme and complete a 12-week IELTS course one day per week.

“After this, recruits will be supported through the NMC registration process including the OSCE exam.”

Liz Bruce, modern matron, said: “Caring for people can be demanding but it is an extremely fulfilling and rewarding career. It’s a job in which you can make a real difference to people’s lives in a positive way.

“Not only will successful applicants be supported through their IELTS and nursing and midwifery registration process, they will also have a fantastic opportunity to develop their career with one of the biggest acute trusts in the country.

“Working in the NHS brings many benefits. As well as the generous leave entitlement, pension scheme and family-friendly/flexible working arrangements our hospitals are also a vibrant, dynamic and lively place to work.”