Immigration, Nationalism, and Its Impact on the Care Sector
In recent times, immigration has become a highly debated and contentious issue, reaching a stage where political parties are fuelling nationalism as a means of power. While nationalism has the power to stir emotions, we must be wary of the dangerous outcomes it can produce in our society.
We are witnessing wars and increased social division in the very societies that we pride ourselves on being ‘civilised,’ with too much focus on promoting hate.
As someone who has worked in the care home sector for over ten years, I have seen firsthand that staffing shortages have always been a challenge in effectively meeting residents’ needs.
Overseas workers are a vital component of the social care system in the UK, and we should appreciate the contributions of those who are willing to work in this sector.
While some have called for using domestic talent to fill social care jobs and reduce reliance on overseas workers, we must carefully consider the potential impact of such measures.
Restrictions on dependents for work visa holders could make the UK less attractive to many healthcare professionals, especially when compared to countries like Australia, which is increasingly appealing to UK nurses.
My expertise lies predominantly in care homes, and I can clearly see why people say that governments have consistently failed to address the issues in social care.
I observe a lack of urgency in addressing the care needs of vulnerable individuals and a persistent failure to anticipate and plan for potential challenges, despite clear indicators of an ageing population and a rise in cognitive impairment-related illnesses
Based on my experience, I assert that we need more than just people to fill gaps; we need individuals who are compassionate and attentive to residents’ needs.
Having a collective group of caring people to meet the needs of the vulnerable is a necessity rather than a milestone that many care providers have set for themselves.
I believe such a mentality is a gift of the society they are living in.
A fellow nurse in the care homes shared her concerns with me yesterday. She feels scared and unwelcome due to the attitudes of some residents’ families, affecting her confidence in providing care.
This irony, where a nurse feels such fear while trying to give her all, is a reflection of our societal fears.
Hate speeches only serve to create further divisions in our society, making us narrow-minded and leaving us vulnerable to manipulation by various organisations and religious groups.
Yes, I admit that migration is a growing concern in developed countries like the UK, but only more effective planning, centred on the principles of peaceful coexistence, can assure harmony for future generations.
If we fail to create such an atmosphere in our civilisation, we are leading to widespread conflicts and a life marked by suffering.
It’s time to wake up!
