NHS Forth Valley has welcomed the latest batch of overseas nurses to the health board, bringing with them a wealth of experience.

Eight qualified nurses have been brought in as part of a Scottish Government initiative to increase international recruitment.

This in turn will allow NHS Forth Valley to better support the delivery of health services across Scotland.

This latest group of nurses now brings the total number of healthcare staff recruited from overseas over the last few years to 55 in NHS Forth Valley.

The nurses come from India, Iran and Trinidad and Tobago are set to undertake an induction and training programme before taking up full time roles at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

Sarah Grant, NHS Forth Valley’s nurse educator for international recruitment, said: “We are delighted to welcome the latest group of qualified nurses recruited from overseas who have chosen to work in NHS Forth Valley.

“We know from feedback from local staff, patients and visitors that the healthcare professionals recruited from overseas are making a positive difference and they, along with the many recently qualified nursing staff who are joining us from local universities, well help us to deliver a wide range of services.”

NHS Forth Valley have recently received an NHS Scotland Pastoral Care Quality Award for the work local staff within the health board carry out to ensure the safe arrival, induction and provision of support and pastoral care staff from overseas.

This includes personally tailored training and development, support to find accommodation as well as a wide range of practical and professional support to help staff adjust in Forth Valley.