Christian Allard MSP at the Scottish Parliament.
With thanks to Lee Robb, Caseworker to Christian Allard MSP.
Home Office planned changes to working visas could see a number of NHS Grampian staff sent back to their home countries.
This comes after North East SNP MSP, Christian Allard, requested information from NHS Grampian on what the UK Government’s proposed changes to the current Tier 2 Visa system would mean for the local health service.
The proposals mean that, non-EU citizens who earn less-than £35,000 per annum, could find they do not qualify for a UK working visa. NHS Grampian counted 10 staff members who fall into this category – including nursing staff.
The Royal College of Nursing have projected that such changes could cost NHS Scotland 3,365 nurses.
Commenting, Christian Allard said:
“People who come to this country and contribute, in the way that NHS nurses do, should not be treated like second-class citizens.
“The prospect of losing NHS Scotland staff as a result of the Conservative government’s planned changes is totally unacceptable. This will have an effect everywhere, including here in the North East.
“NHS staff play a vital role in delivering our health service. Their experience and dedication cannot be allowed to fall victim to a backwards agenda from the UK Government.”
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