How an innovative scheme helps internationally trained staff integrate into Liverpool's rich culture.
Creating a sense of belonging
Internationally trained staff have a crucial role in delivering high-quality care to patients in Merseyside and across the UK. However, living in a new country presents many challenges, such as feeling isolated, cultural differences, and language barriers including understanding local accents.
To address these challenges, a group of NHS colleagues created Scouse School – a programme designed to give internationally recruited staff a better understanding of Liverpool’s rich history, culture and local quirks.
Scouse School was founded in 2023 by Jo Marinas, deputy director of nursing workforce development, and Tom Southern, director of fundraising at St Paul’s Eye Research Foundation, and quickly gained traction. It now involves a team of dedicated staff volunteers from University Hospitals of Liverpool Group (UHLG).
The scheme aims to support international allied health professionals (AHPs) and healthcare professionals as they integrate into their new workplace and community. The programme aligns closely with the CSP’s strategic priorities by promoting belonging, wellbeing and inclusivity in healthcare teams.
What makes Scouse School unique?
The day-long programme combines fun and education, encompassing Liverpool’s history, culture, accents and colloquialisms, interactive learning, community building and a tour of the city’s iconic landmarks.
It has reached more than 300 international recruits to date, with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Due to its success, the programme is now open to staff from neighbouring hospitals.
Supporting innovation in inclusion
The CSP is highlighting Scouse School as an exemplar initiative that aligns with our values and priorities, including:
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- CSP values in action – Scouse School embodies our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity in healthcare.
- Inspiring integration – By bridging cultural and communication gaps, the programme helps internationally recruited staff to thrive.
- A model for retention – It aligns with our focus on staff wellbeing and retention.
- Cultural exchange – It promotes mutual respect and understanding, celebrating the diversity international colleagues bring to healthcare.
- Replicable innovation – While uniquely Scouse, the programme offers a replicable model for other trusts and regions.
Jo Marinas, said, ‘It is very daunting to move to a new country, where you are not familiar with the culture and local quirks. Scouse School aims to alleviate some of that worry in a safe, fun environment, where colleagues can have a few laughs alongside learning.’
It is very daunting to move to a new country. Scouse School aims to alleviate some of that worry.
Alexandra Spearritt, vice-chair of CSP Council, said: 'As acting director of allied health professions at UHLG and a Scouse member of staff, I was immediately drawn to supporting Scouse School, which helps our internationally trained AHPs, as well as other healthcare professionals, to feel welcomed and connected to both their workplace and the local community.
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
'With over 300 participants so far, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s fantastic to see how this programme is strengthening teams and enhancing staff morale and retention.'
Excellence recognised
Scouse School’s impact has not gone unnoticed. The initiative won the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Staff Wellbeing Award in 2024. With plans to expand and introduce a reciprocal cultural exchange project, Scouse School continues to set a benchmark for inclusion and diversity in the NHS.