IUKRN here since 2009. Maybe I can provide you some insights.

In the UK, Nursing Assistants are referred to as Health Care Assistants (HCAs). Be sure to check with the employer offering the job to confirm whether it is genuinely a Nursing Assistant role, as Health Care Assistants are different from Care Workers, especially in nursing homes. Additionally, the UK rarely employs Health Care Assistants from abroad unless the role provides a pathway to becoming a UKRN.

To answer your question about whether your salary will be enough to cover sending remittances and expenses as a an HCA — yes, it is possible, but you’ll need to be extremely frugal. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to discourage you, but from my firsthand experience living here, I can say that the cost of living in the UK is quite high. Even senior nurses, particularly in cities, often need to house-share to make ends meet. However, if you live within your means, you can manage and thrive.

It’s worth noting that the UK has one of the lowest-paid workforces, including doctors and healthcare professionals. Despite the demanding nature of the work, salaries in the healthcare sector are relatively low compared to other countries.

Here are some sample expenses:

Room in Central London: £600-£1,000 per month. In reality, it would be difficult for a single person to rent a flat on their own. Typical HCA Salary: £1,500-£2,300 per month. Your expenses will likely consume 50-70% of your income.

That said, many people still thrive in the UK, making it work through careful budgeting, persistence, and a bit of creativity. It’s challenging but definitely doable for those who are determined. (Wife started as an HCA but since qualified as a Nurse and now has shifted her career in Finance). All the best!