Episode 48: Caring across borders

In this episode, host Steve Bland is joined by international nurses Angelie Pol, Clinical Nurse Specialist, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts Health; Kristine Mangaliag, Clinical Nurse Specialist Lung Cancer, Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health; and Robbie Castro, Clinical Nurse Specialist GI, Barts Health.

Together, they explore what it truly means to be an international nurse in the UK cancer workforce, sharing personal stories, professional challenges, and moments of growth that shape both careers and patient care.

The conversation begins with personal journeys into nursing, uncovering what inspired each guest to choose the profession and what led them to take the bold step of working abroad. The nurses reflect on the realities of relocating to a new country, including the emotional and practical challenges of starting again in an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Moving into work life, the episode explores how nursing in the UK compares with practice in their home countries. Guests discuss transferable skills they bring with them, how they adapt to new clinical pathways and systems, and what it’s like navigating the NHS while maintaining high standards of compassionate cancer care.

The discussion then turns to culture and communication, highlighting how cultural background shapes patient interactions, influences approaches to care, and deepens empathy. The nurses share honest reflections on managing language barriers and describe moments when cultural understanding made a meaningful difference to patients and colleagues alike.

In growth and support, the guests reflect on how working in the UK has helped them develop professionally and personally. They discuss the importance of mentorship, leadership support, and structured development opportunities, offering practical advice for other nurses considering an international move.

Finally, in looking ahead, the episode challenges common misconceptions about international nurses, explores future aspirations, and reflects on the lasting impact these professionals hope to make within their teams, organisations, and the wider cancer workforce.

This episode is a celebration of resilience, diversity, and shared purpose, highlighting the vital contribution international nurses make to cancer care across north east London and beyond.

This episode is released on National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Day, which recognises the importance of the role, raises awareness of career opportunities, and thanks all CNSs across the country for all the hard work they do.

To find out more about Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialists, visit: https://www.nelcanceralliance.nhs.uk/cancer-clinical-nurse-specialists 

Read more about National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Day: https://www.nelcanceralliance.nhs.uk/news/national-cancer-clinical-nurse-specialist-day-16-march-2026 

#NationalCancerCNSDay

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