Nursing ranks among the most sought-after professions in the UK due to the heightened demand for healthcare staff. Over recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of medical professionals, particularly nurses, entering the UK.
by March 2022, the count of Nigerian-trained nurses on the UK permanent register surged to 7,256 from 2,796 in March 2018″
UK NMC report
Experts attribute the influx of nurses migrating to the UK to the country’s accessible and affordable migration requirements. This surge is a response to the UK’s dire shortage of healthcare workers, particularly in its National Healthcare system, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nigerian-trained nurses migrating to the UK rank third globally and first in Africa in terms of numbers leaving for this destination.”
According to Jennifer Oyelade, director of Transquisite Consulting, Nigerians are receiving their training within Nigeria and later pursuing conversion to become registered nurses or doctors in the UK. This transition allows them to enjoy higher pay and an improved quality of life. Oyelade emphasized that the allure of better opportunities and compensation is however causing Nigeria as a country to experience a loss of skilled nurses and doctors, as they are drawn to economies that offer more favorable conditions.
Image Source: Freepik.com
Figures – What the Data Reveals
The UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) oversees the regulation of nursing and midwifery professions, maintaining a register of eligible practitioners.
As of March 31, 2023, the NMC’s annual report indicates a total of 788,638 nurses, midwives, and nursing associates on the permanent register. Among them, 10,639 are Nigerian nurses and midwives practicing in the UK.
According to the UK NMC report, by March 2022, the count of Nigerian-trained nurses on the UK permanent register surged to 7,256 from 2,796 in March 2018, showcasing consistent growth. In one year, from March 2021 to March 2022, the UK’s permanent register saw an addition of 2,946 Nigerian-trained nurses, a remarkable 68% increase compared to the previous year, marking the highest number over the last five years.
Starting at 2,796 in March 2018, the count of registered nurses climbed by 8% to 3,021 in 2019. This count has continued to increase annually, peaking at 7,256 nurses by March 2022. The difference of 4,460 nurses between the registered count in 2018 and 2022 constitutes a significant 61.5% of the total 7,256 nurses on the UK permanent register.
Nigerian-trained nurses migrating to the UK rank third globally and first in Africa in terms of numbers leaving for this destination.
UK Nursing Salary Data
In 2004, the UK introduced the Agenda for Change (AfC) to enhance and regulate nurses’ pay scale. This new system established the banding structure that governs Nursing pay today, aimed at addressing historical pay discrepancies by ensuring fair compensation for equal work within the NHS.
Notably, many Nigerian-trained Nurses registered in the UK typically start from Band 5.
AfC
The concept of categorizing roles into specific pay bands was a novel approach, and this system has remained essentially unchanged since its inception. Nursing bandings represent varying levels of compensation based on experience and qualifications. Despite the range of Bands 1 to 9, newly qualified nurses commence at Band 5, irrespective of their individual qualifications.
The breakdown of qualifications for each band with their pay according to AfC pay scale is as follows:
- Band 1 – Nursery Assistant (£22,383)
- Band 2 – Healthcare Assistant (£22,383)
- Band 3 – Emergency Care Assistant (£22,816 – £24,336)
- Band 4 – Theatre Support Worker (£25,147 – £27,596)
- Band 5 – Newly Qualified Nurse (£28,407 – £34,581)
- Band 6 – Nursing Specialist or Senior Nurse (£35,392 – £42,618)
- Band 7 – Advanced Nurse / Nurse Practitioner (£43,742 – £50,056)
- Band 8 – Modern Matron or Chief Nurse (£50,952 – £96,376)
- Band 9 – Consultant (£99,891 – £114,949)
Notably, many Nigerian-trained Nurses registered in the UK typically start from Band 5.
A nurse providing care to an infant patient.
Image Source: NurseJournal.org
It is also important to note that the average salary for nurses can also vary based on their location or region. They are generally, based on recent data from www.indeed.uk, registered nurses in the UK earn an average of £18.42 per hour, £2,243 per month, and £31,676 per year.
However, examining salary ranges across different regions;
- In England, registered nurses earn an average of £18.36 per hour, £2,236 per month, and £31,584 per year. according to Maria Stoped Nigeria, the annual pay for a Registered Nurse in England is approximately £30,492, aligning with the national average.
- In Wales, nurses earn an average salary of £18.10 per hour, £2,205 per month, and £31,137 per year, which mirrors the national average.
- In Scotland, registered nurses receive an average salary of £21.58 per hour, £2,628 per month, and £37,119 per year (17% above the national average).
- In Northern Ireland, registered nurses enjoy an average pay of £25.55 per hour, £3,112 per month, and £43,948 per year (39% above the national average).
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the UK for a Nigerian nurse is subject to a range of factors that shape their financial circumstances. These factors encompass both the family’s composition and their chosen lifestyle. Some of the components that influence the living costs of UK-based Nigerian Nurses are:
- National Insurance: The payment of National Insurance holds significant importance as it grants access to state benefits. These contributions are automatically deducted from a nurse’s salary by the NHS, forming a foundation for their social security.
- Pension Scheme: Mandatory enrollment in a pension scheme is a noteworthy aspect of working as a nurse in the UK. This involves contributions from both the nurse and their employer, ensuring financial security for retirement years.
- Education and Childcare Expenses: While primary education is free, the cost of higher education comes into play, with annual college fees around £9,250. Additionally, childcare expenses are a consideration for nurses with families.
- Healthcare Costs: The National Health Service (NHS) provides comprehensive healthcare coverage. However, there might be charges associated with dental and eye care services, prompting nurses to consider potential healthcare expenses.
- Housing and Utility Expenditures: The diversity in housing costs across different regions of the UK necessitates careful consideration. Furthermore, utility bills for water, gas, and electricity are variable and contribute to the overall budget.
- Taxation Overview: Various tax obligations, including income tax and National Insurance, come into effect. Nurses need to be aware of tax thresholds, such as the £12,500 personal allowance for income tax, and the implications of higher income tax rates.
- Council Tax Implications: The council tax system supports local services and is subject to the property’s size and location. This adds another layer of financial planning.
- Transport and Communication Costs: Opting for public transportation over private vehicles can lead to cost savings. The average monthly pass for public transit is approximately £81.50. Additionally, nurses should budget for mobile phone expenses, which generally range between £50 and £60.
- Television License Fee: Enjoying live or on-demand BBC programming requires an annual fee of £147. This is a recurring expense to be mindful of.
In conclusion, working as a nurse in the UK presents numerous benefits. Despite the initial challenges of moving to a new country alongside taxation and expenditures, the UK offers substantial job opportunities. The healthcare sector in the UK is conducive to nurses due to job security, competitive pay, diverse career paths, international recognition, and opportunities for career advancement. Nurses also enjoy flexibility in their work schedules, comprehensive orientation programs, and support for family migration. Continuous learning, a robust pension scheme, and assistance with the OSCE exam further enhance the appeal. Ultimately, nurses in the UK make a significant impact on patients’ lives while experiencing personal and professional growth.
