Nursing In Guernsey – A British Nurse’s Experience
Nursing In Guernsey
What is your Name & Job Title? Charlene Hollingworth – Senior Staff Nurse
Can you give us a snapshot of your nursing/allied healthcare career thus far? I started nursing in 2011 in Emergency and then in 2017 I moved to the UAE to become a charge nurse in a busy trauma centre. After nearly three years in the UAE I took the leap to move to the beautiful island of Guernsey where I am a senior staff nurse in Emergency.
Which country are you working in through CCM? Guernsey
Why did you choose this country as your destination? The way of life, the beautiful island and also speaking to my manager I knew this was the place I wanted to move to.
When you first arrived, what supports did the hospital have in place to help you adjust? When I arrived I had to isolate for two weeks due to Covid-19. I was picked up at the airport and taken to a hotel. I received many emails from HR and my manager called and dropped off supplies to the hotel for me. I never felt alone due to the support. Once I started work I was allocated a buddy, this has been great, coffee catch ups and regular messages makes me feel part of the team and helps settle me in. 
What kind of facilities do you have in your accommodation and local area? The accommodation is fully equipped and there is an onsite free laundry available. Outside there is a shared bbq and seating area. Town is not far from the accommodation which has lots of coffee shops, bars and high street stores.
How do you spend your days/evenings/weekends off? There is so much to do in Guernsey! I have spent hours walking the cliffs, out in the sea paddle boarding, kayaking and also a high speed rib to see the puffins and seals. The beaches are amazing and great if you fancy a lazy day.
What is nursing/allied healthcare like in your new country? (How is it different to home and how do you adapt to the differences?) The nursing is great, they have a very supportive team who all want the same outcome. It is so laid back and the support has been fantastic.
What professional development opportunities were offered to you? I have completed my mandatory training, given dates to complete advanced courses and I will be teaching on a course in October and I would have only been here 6 months.
What have you enjoyed most to date? The friendliness of the team, so welcoming and nothing is too much bother. Also the island is beautiful, every corner I turn I smile! I have found my happy place.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to your chosen destination? Make sure that island life is what you want. Outdoors is the way of life here, sand is always in the car and the sea is just around the corner.
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Testimonial: 2020
