Golden Apples Qi Garden
Golden Apples are an extension of the Learning from Excellence (LfE) process to highlight what the divisions consider a significantly ‘over and above’ nomination of a quality improvement (Qi) made in their service. A Golden Apple is not necessarily defined by measurable outcomes, but more its contribution to creating a culture of quality.
Supporting our international recruits
Project
Supporting our international recruits: Golden Apple.
Lead: Gail Landucci, OT and Team Leader Central EICT
What was the problem?
The Central Early Intervention Community Team (EICT) welcomed several new team members recruited internationally. Recognising the unique challenges faced by staff relocating to a new country and healthcare system, the team identified the need for a clear and supportive induction plan.
This plan was designed to help new starters:
- Settle into the team environment,
- Understand and navigate BCHC policies and culture,
- Adapt to working within the NHS framework,
- djust to living and working in the UK.
Aim
To provide a comprehensive induction for 100% of BCHC internationally recruited staff by January 2025.
What did we do?
This quality improvement initiative was sparked by a Learning from Excellence (LfE) nomination, recognising the value of a well-structured and individualised induction process.
By providing a detailed, supportive, and tailored induction, the team not only enhanced the wellbeing and professional development of new staff but also contributed to long-term benefits for the wider service. The approach supported:
- Staff confidence and retention.
- Team efficiency and effectiveness.
- The development of a positive culture of openness, learning, and continuous improvement.
- Support inside and outside of work.
- Time was given to help new starters settle into life in the UK.
- Warm welcome and gentle integration.
- Ongoing check-ins and clinical support.
- Regular supervision and shared decision-making.
- Supervision was consistent and collaborative.
- Constructive.
- Wellbeing consideration.
- Acknowledgement of the emotional challenges of relocating.
What are the benefits for patients and staff?
Following the implementation of these enhancements, individual staff members have shown notable improvements in the quality of their assessments, documentation, and client interventions. Staff now demonstrate a clear understanding of their roles, the service provision, and the wider support network available to them.
Due to its success, this approach is being replicated with other new starters and has been shared within the division through the Small Talk newsletter. It will also be disseminated more widely via the International Recruitment Forum, supporting consistency and best practice across teams.
Benefits to patients include:
- Access to better-skilled clinicians.
- Enhanced teamwork and collaboration.
- Increased staff morale, contributing to a more positive care environment.
Collectively, these improvements are expected to lead to higher quality patient care and a more resilient, confident workforce.
Measures used
- Feedback obtained from existing international recruits to form a baseline, and then from newly recruited international recruits to ensure changes worked and were maintained and embedded.
- Data collected to measure staff retention before and after improvement.
- Data collected to measure staff attendance before and after improvement.
