Northern Ireland Nursing

[Enairarian]

Hello! I'm currently a nurse hoping to work in Northern Ireland, specifically in the southern trust of hsc. I am hoping to gain some information regarding this place. My co workers are encouraging me to transfer to another place (i.e London). Is working in NI good if not better than working in London? I am also concerned if there are increased reports of racism in this place than in any other place in the UK? How are the people in NI? I am asian so that is a big concern for me. Thanks for reading and/or replying!

[Phil-on-a-bike]

Hi Enairarian,

I spent 2012-13 working in a rural area of Fermanagh, a few miles outside Enniskillen.

I enjoyed NI - but I do have a great deal of experience of working away from home for long periods.

A lot depends on whether this is your first time working away.

If it is, then NI's not the easiest way to start.

Apart from Belfast, the towns are small - if you're used to a big city, you may find things a bit quiet.

Also, it helps if you drive.

I ran into just one incident of (anti-English) racism. It happens.

Among my colleagues was a nurse from Barbados. He had no trouble at all in Fermanagh, but he transferred to Portstewart and said, unfortunately, that he did encounter some abusive behaviour there.

Generally, the people in NI are brilliant - very welcoming and helpful.

I have to say, though - I trained in London and lived there for a few years.

London's brilliant. If you get the chance to go to London, I'd say make that your first choice.

Hope that helps!

[Enairarian]

Thanks for your insight! Unfortunately I can't change my location to London. I'm not used to big cities so I can live with small towns. from your experience I might seriously consider to move to london after my contract expires.

thanks again!