A new film has been launched to highlight the groundbreaking work of ‘Scouse School’ a dedicated, award-winning team at University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, who are supporting our internationally trained healthcare colleagues living and working in Liverpool.
The film from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, showcases the success of ‘Scouse School’ which was launched in 2023 by UHLG.
Since its launch, Scouse School has helped over 300 internationally trained health professionals and other staff such as nurses, doctors and healthcare assistants, navigate cultural differences, local accents, and workplace integration.
The film offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the initiative is making a tangible difference in the lives of these professionals, to fully embrace their professional roles and their new home city.
It shows participants enjoying a mix of interactive learning, community-building activities, all while becoming better acquainted with the region's colloquialisms and local traditions.
Alexandra Spearritt, Vice-Chair of CSP Council and Acting Director of Allied Health Professions at NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group (UHLG), expressed her support for the initiative: “As a scouse member of staff, I was immediately drawn to helping internationally trained AHPs and other healthcare professionals, to feel welcomed and connected to both their workplace and the local community. It’s fantastic to see how this programme is strengthening teams, enhancing staff morale, and improving retention.”
Internationally trained healthcare professionals play a crucial role in delivering high-quality care to patients in Merseyside and across the UK.
Living in a new country can present many challenges, such as feeling isolated, adjusting to cultural differences, and overcoming language barriers - particularly when it comes to understanding local accents.
To tackle these challenges head-on, NHS colleagues Jo Marinas and Tom Southern created the programme with the aim of helping international staff better understand Liverpool's rich history, culture, accents, and local customs in an engaging and supportive environment.
Jo Marinas, Deputy Director of Nursing Workforce Development at UHLG, explained, “It can be very daunting to move to a new country, where the culture and even the local quirks are unfamiliar. Scouse School aims to alleviate some of that worry in a safe, fun environment, where colleagues can have a few laughs while learning about the place they now call home.”
Its success is evident in the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from participants and increased staff retention. Many report that the experience has not only helped them adjust to their new workplace but also enabled them to feel more connected to the local community. It also took home the Staff Wellbeing trophy at last year’s prestigious Health Service Journal Awards.
Originally developed for UHLG staff, the success of Scouse School has driven its expansion, and it is now welcoming recruits from neighbouring hospitals, amplifying its positive impact across the region.
The film is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the challenges faced by internationally trained staff and the importance of programmes like Scouse School in promoting belonging, well-being, and inclusivity within the NHS workforce.