Being referred to as an 'internationally trained nurse' in the UK despite undergoing rigorous exams and meeting stringent requirements to become a UK Registered Nurse is not only disheartening, but it perpetuates a sense of being 'other' in a profession committed to care and inclusion. This label does not recognize the skills, dedication, and hard work nurses have put in to integrate into the UK healthcare system.

I have experienced this firsthand; even though I have passed all required examinations to be a Registered Nurse in the UK, the 'internationally trained' tag sticks with me. My colleagues who have lived and trained in the UK are also brandished with the same label, which raises unnecessary barriers and biases against our competency.

The use of this title has far-reaching implications. It affects not only the professional identity and confidence of nurses but also impacts the perception of patients. Some patients express hesitancy or outright refusal to receive care from 'internationally trained nurses,' despite knowing that these nurses have undergone the same stringent training and examinations required of any UK Registered Nurse.

Furthermore, this label threatens to haunt future generations: my children and their children, who may be born and trained in the UK, could still face the stigma of being categorized under this limiting and misleading title.

To resolve this, I urge the UK's healthcare authorities to cease the use of the title 'internationally trained nurses.' Instead, recognize all who have undergone the necessary training and examinations as equal and equally qualified UK Registered Nurses. This change will not only promote a more inclusive and equitable healthcare environment but will also eliminate the root of unwarranted biases against skilled and capable healthcare providers.

Please sign this petition to call upon our healthcare authorities to make this essential change. Together, we can create a more dignified and unified identity for all nurses in the UK healthcare system, regardless of their country of origin or training background.