Celebrating Overseas NHS Workers Day and 25 years of service from our Filipino nursing colleagues
This Friday, 6 March, we mark two important events here at CTM - Overseas NHS Workers Day and Employee Appreciation Day.
Together, these days offer a powerful opportunity to recognise the contribution, commitment and compassion of our colleagues - and especially the international staff who have chosen to build their careers and lives within the NHS.
Celebrating 25 years of service - our Filipino nursing cohort
This year, we are delighted to celebrate a remarkable milestone - the 1st and 2nd cohorts of Filipino nurses who joined Princess of Wales Hospital in 2001 are marking 25 years of service in the NHS!
These nurses - many of whom arrived in the UK at the very start of their careers - are an integral part of our teams, contributing to the culture, stability and excellence of services across CTM.
The cohort have shared the collective message below, reflecting on their quarter century:
A career of 25 years in the NHS is not just a milestone - it’s a testament to our dedication, resilience, professionalism, and compassion. There have been moments requiring adaptability, sacrifices and teamwork, alongside occasions of immense pride and fulfilment. The opportunity to support patients and families at important points in their lives remains one of the most meaningful aspects of this vocation.
We are grateful for the professional relationships and friendships built over the years. Collaboration, shared learning, and mutual support have been central to sustaining high standards of care and navigating periods of transformation within the organisation.
Looking back, 25 years represents not only longevity, but continued dedication to the core values of the NHS. As we continue our journey, with pride and gratitude we give our commitment to giving our best in the years ahead.
Why Overseas NHS Workers Day and Employee Appreciation Day matter
The NHS has always relied on the talent, kindness and expertise of colleagues from across the world. From nursing and midwifery to medical, allied health, facilities and support roles, colleagues from overseas bring vital skills and experience to our workforce.
Overseas NHS Workers Day gives us the chance to acknowledge the personal sacrifices, professional contributions and cultural richness that international staff bring to our organisation.
Falling on the same day this year, Employee Appreciation Day encourages us to recognise all CTM colleagues - and serves as a timely reminder that every role, every background, and every individual strengthens our health board.
As we celebrate both occasions, we take special pride in honouring the Filipino nurses whose 25-year contribution reflects the very best of what these days stand for.
A message from Dr Anita Parbhoo, Chair of CTM’s Race Equality Network
“Overseas NHS Workers Day reminds us how deeply the NHS relies on the skill and generosity of colleagues who have travelled far from home to care for others.
This year, as it coincides with Employee Appreciation Day, we have an important opportunity to recognise the contributions of all our staff - while giving special thanks to our international colleagues who enrich our organisation in so many ways. Our Filipino nurses, marking 25 years of service, embody compassion, resilience and dedication.
Thank you for everything you bring to our organisation and to the communities we serve. Your years of dedicated care are an extraordinary achievement, and we are honoured to celebrate you.”
Our people are at the heart of everything we do - and today is a reminder of how much stronger we are together.
06/03/2026