Nurses from health board visit Florence Nightingale's home

Filipino nurses that work in the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board represented Wales in a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Lea Hurst on September 12, the childhood home of Florence Nightingale.

Regina Reyes, clinical research nurse specialist at the Royal Gwent Hospital, said: “We felt a deep sense of belonging and appreciation as we were surrounded by so many Filipino nurses.

Filipino nursing representatives with Mr. Peter Kay and Mr. Teodoro Locsin Jr. (Image: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board) "It was even more special that this event coincided with ESEA Heritage Month (East and Southeast Asian Heritage Month), which celebrates the rich history, culture, and contributions of East and Southeast Asian communities.

"Being there during such a significant month added a deeper layer of pride, as we continue to highlight and honour the essential role of Filipino nurses in the UK and beyond."

The trip was organised by the Philippine Embassy in the UK, in partnership with Mr. Peter Kay, the owner of the historic house in Derbyshire. PNA colleagues from Cardiff and Vale, and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Boards also joined the event.

Regina Reyes attended the event as chair of the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) in the UK. She was joined by colleagues Redentor Alzate, emergency nurse practitioner at Royal Gwent Hospital’s Minor Injuries Unit, and Sabrina Cox, clinical endoscopy nurse at the Royal Gwent.

Florence Nightingale plaque at Lea Hurst (Image: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board) Sabrina Cox, said: “As a proud Internationally Educated Nurse and Executive Secretary of the Philippine Nurses Association UK Wales, being surrounded by fellow Filipino healthcare professionals was incredibly inspiring and highlighted the strength, unity and pride within our community.

"We are very grateful to PNA UK for making this visit possible.

"Attending the event at Florence Nightingale's childhood home was an incredibly moving experience.

"Walking in the footsteps of the pioneer of modern nursing alongside my esteemed colleagues reminded me of the profound legacy we uphold every day.

"It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on her legacy and celebrate the significant contributions of Filipino nurses to the NHS.”

The event began with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, "Lupang Hinirang," followed by a warm welcome from Mr Kay, who expressed his gratitude for the invaluable contributions of Filipino healthcare professionals in the NHS.

As a North Wales native, Mr Kay was particularly happy to see Welsh delegates at the significant site in nursing history, even sharing Welsh words like "Diolch i bawb" (Thank you to all).

Filipino flag at Lea Hurst (Image: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board) His Excellency, the Philippine Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Teodoro Locsin Jr., also gave a speech in which he recognised the crucial role Filipinos, especially nurses, play in the UK healthcare system and highlighted how they not only save lives but bring compassion and excellence to their work, embodying the values of Florence Nightingale.

The attendees received a guided tour of the historic mansion and viewed an original portrait of her with her beloved pet, Athena.

In appreciation of their visit, Mr. Kay and His Excellency, Mr. Locsin, were presented with traditional Filipino delicacies and Welsh Cakes, symbolising their gratitude and the bridge between the two cultures.

A spokesperson for the health board, said: "The visit to Lea Hurst was not just a journey through history; it was a celebration of Florence Nightingale's enduring legacy and the Filipino nurses who continue to uphold her values in the UK healthcare system today."