This month marks ten years since Damian moved to the UK - a personal milestone that has prompted a real reflection and once again raised the persistent question other colleagues may also be wrestling with right now: What does it take to feel accepted?
He explains: “I started out working in manual labour, moved into hospitality, and I joined the healthcare talent acquisition team at DHU in 2022. I help bring people into the NHS - into roles that matter - supporting a system that cares for millions. But I still find myself wondering… am I a ‘good immigrant’ yet?”
Damian’s journey is one of contribution, adaptability, and growth. He’s now driving forward essential support services that go on to make the difference to our patients and communities. Despite this, he continues to hear some of the harmful narratives that often make for very public discussions.
“I asked myself - do I need to be in this country another ten years before some people see the value I bring? I’ve always felt appreciated at DHU, but not everyone outside sees the full picture."
His words make you stop and think - particularly at a time when immigration remains a politically charged topic. Recent national language has reignited difficult feelings for many - implying that those who come to the UK through a legitimate and encouraged resettlement route must somehow ‘prove their worth’.
"These conversations matter..."
At DHU Healthcare, we understand that statements made in national conversations can have personal impacts - especially for colleagues who, like Damian, may have moved here for a multitude of reasons: to seek safety, opportunity, family, or simply a different life.
“In ten years, the loudest conversation I often still hear is ‘immigrants = bad.’ That hurts. I’m not sharing this to gain sympathy, but because these conversations matter. Voices like mine deserve to be part of them.”
We couldn’t agree more. Damian’s story reminds us that belonging isn’t just about where you live - it’s about how you’re treated, what you're allowed to feel, and whether your contribution is truly recognised.
Our commitment at DHU is clear. As a Community Interest Company and not-for-profit partner to the NHS, we stand for equity, not just equality. We celebrate diversity, not just representation. And we create belonging, not just inclusion. Our values - compassion, accomplishment, respect, and encouragement - are reflected in Damian’s journey and in those of many others like him.
DHU is special because we are an organisation made stronger by the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences of our people. Colleagues from all over the world have chosen to bring their talent, passion, and purpose to DHU - and with them, they bring different perspectives, rich stories, and vital contributions.
To truly belong...
Zahra Leggatt, Director of People, comments: “As part of our Inspire coaching-led leadership development programme we believe in listening, responding with empathy, and creating safe spaces for honest conversations. That’s how we build a culture where everyone can (and feels) they truly belong.
“As Brené Brown says, ‘Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen,’ and I want to thank Damian for doing exactly that. His story is a powerful reminder that behind every role at DHU is a human being - with a journey that deserves to be heard.
“I’ve known Damian since we worked together previously, and I’ve seen how far he’s come - not just professionally, but personally. He moved cities, left family behind, and chose DHU because he believed in the leadership here. He once described himself as not very ‘people-friendly’, but being named a finalist in our 2024 DHU CARE Awards Inspire Leader category tells a very different story. Damian’s growth, openness, and commitment to others reflect exactly the kind of culture we’re nurturing here.”