Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Two hundred extra doctors and nurses from India have been recruited to work in the Welsh NHS.

Wales’ health secretary, Jeremy Miles, made the announcement during a visit to the Indian region of Kerala this week.

It forms part of an agreement between the Welsh Government and the Government of Kerala, which was signed last year.

More than 300 healthcare workers have already been recruited to Wales as part of the agreement.

Across Wales, the NHS currently employs nearly 97,000 full-time equivalent staff – more than at any point in its history.

Mr Miles said: “We are committed to delivering a sustainable NHS workforce which can handle present demands and meet the needs of the future.

“Wales has a long and proud tradition of welcoming healthcare professionals from all over the world and ethical international recruitment is a key part of our workforce strategy to ensure that the NHS in Wales has the right people and skills it needs.”

Staff Nurse Teena Thomas, from Kerala, is one of the 200 workers set to join NHS Wales soon. They said: “I’m drawn to NHS Wales’ commitment to providing high-quality patient care and its reputation for excellence in healthcare.

“I’m excited to be part of a team that values compassion, kindness, and respect. The opportunity to work in a multicultural environment and contribute to the wellbeing of the Welsh community is truly fulfilling.

“I’m looking forward to developing my skills and expertise in a supportive and inclusive work environment.”