A Physical Health Site Practitioner from our Trust met His Royal Highness, King Charles, at a royal reception for internationally educated nurses (IEN) and midwives at Buckingham Palace last week.
Idris Gbadamosi was invited to attend the prestigious event, which marked the King’s 75th birthday, to recognise his outstanding work. Idris, who is an IEN, joined our trust in 2021 and is from Oyo State, Nigeria.
He has worked on a project to improve the experience and retention of IENs at our trust and is also an international recruitment fellow at NHS Southeast England. This role involves supporting and working with IENs on their recruitment and career journey within the NHS.
Idris said: “Attending this event and shaking hands with the King meant the world to me. I never thought I would experience something like this even in my own country, let alone in the UK.
“As an IEN, I felt such joy because our work and contribution to UK health and social care was recognised and valued.”
The newly appointed health and social care secretary, Victoria Atkins, also attended the reception, saying: “What an amazing day, to be here in Buckingham Palace with His Majesty the King, celebrating these incredible people who work in our NHS.
“I think it is so wonderful for His Majesty to show his appreciation, and therefore our appreciation, for all that they do to look after us.”