This year marks a remarkable milestone in the history of Derriford Hospital and the wider NHS Plymouth community; the 25th anniversary of welcoming the first Filipino international nurses to the Trust.

Between August 2000 and March 2001, nearly 200 Filipino nurses were recruited during a historic international drive. At a time of critical NHS staffing shortages, their arrival brought not only essential clinical expertise but also compassion, resilience, and cultural diversity that enriched patient care and the hospital community.

For many, moving thousands of miles from the Philippines was life changing. They left behind families and familiar surroundings to serve patients in a new country, adapting to different healthcare systems and cultural norms. Their dedication strengthened the Trust’s workforce and ensured continuity of care during a challenging period.

Today, around 30 of the original nurses remain, continuing to serve with the same professionalism and commitment that defined their arrival 25 years ago. Their stories reflect courage, adaptability, and an unwavering passion for nursing. As they reflect: “When we first arrived at Derriford Hospital 25 years ago, we came with hope, determination, and a commitment to care. Leaving our families and homeland was not easy, but we found a second family here, among colleagues, patients, and the Plymouth community. We are proud to have contributed to the Trust’s journey and to the lives of countless patients. This anniversary is not just about us—it’s about the enduring partnership between the NHS and international nurses, and the shared values that unite us in service.”

Jayne Middleman, Staff Engagement and Experience Lead at UHP, joined them a few weeks ago, and said: “Twenty-five years ago, I was successfully appointed to a six-month secondment in the Personnel Team, as it was known then. At the time, I could not have imagined the lasting impact the overseas recruitment coordinator role would have on me—both professionally and personally.

During her time there, Jayne recruited more than 100 Filipino nurses with her role extending far beyond supporting their placements and induction into working at UHP. She was also responsible for helping them settle into life in a new city and country. This included finding temporary accommodation, helping them open bank accounts, register with a GP, connect with places of worship, and ensuring their homes were ready for their arrival from the Philippines.

Jayne continued: “Today, when I see them across UHP in wards and departments, the appreciation and kindness of what I did for them is still shared, and although I say to them that I was just doing my job, it is a powerful reminder that my role was not just about filling roles, but about building communities and connections.”

Craig Bibby, Capital Investment Manager, also worked with Jayne, and said: “The Filipino nurses have enriched the organisation over the last 25 years and that it was a privilege to be involved in their recruitment and introduction to UHP all those years ago”

Darryn Allcorn, Chief Nurse & Director of Integrated Professions at UHP said: “It’s an absolute privilege to celebrate the service and recognise the impact of our first cohort of nurses who joined us here in Derriford 25 years ago. Without doubt they have brought exceptional skill and dedication but also warmth, kindness, and a sense of family to our Trust. Their impact on patient care and on our culture has been immeasurable, and we are truly grateful for everything they have given to and continue to give UHP, their colleagues, patients and the communities we support.”

As we celebrate this anniversary, we also look to the future, continuing to embrace diversity, support international colleagues, and recognise the vital role they play in the NHS. The story of the first Filipino nurses at Derriford is not just about the past; it’s about the enduring values of compassion, collaboration, and commitment that define healthcare.