Acclimatising to a new culture

Healthcare staff from all over the world come to Ireland to work and you will have a diverse range of colleagues.

You may find some things in Ireland a bit different to what you are used to. We have training programmes in place to help guide you as you get used to life in Ireland.

Our cultural awareness module will help you navigate some of the differences in culture.

The Diversity, Equality and Inclusion module is available on HSeLanD. This in an introductory programme that aims to support you in understanding Diversity, Equality and Inclusion and how these can be applied in the workplace.

Simply log onto HSeLanD with your new login and search for Diversity module.

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Understanding common Irish phrases

While Ireland is an English-speaking country, there are some words and phrases that are unique to the Irish.

We have compiled a list of  common words or phrases used in Ireland that you may not have heard before or fully understand their meaning. This list covers not only the expressions you will hear on a day-to-day basis, but also some terminology used in the workplace.

The Gaelic language (normally referred to simply as ‘Irish’) is an official language of Ireland. Although it is not widely spoken on a day-to-day basis, you will notice it on all official signs and documents.  Don’t worry – the English translation is always alongside.  Check out some common sentences and ask your colleagues how to pronounce them!

Man and woman

Help communicating with colleagues and patients

The National Healthcare Communications Programme is a great resource. It aims to help all staff  in their communications with patients and colleagues. There are helpful pointers with non-verbal communication which may differ among cultures.

The module on communicating with colleagues and managers can be particularly helpful in giving you an idea of how people typically interact in the workplace in Ireland.

 

Health care professional with an elderly patient

Guides to inclusive language

The HSE’s Diversity Equality and Inclusion team have compiled a list of inclusive communication guidelines.

These are useful guides on the language to use and what words to avoid when speaking about:

  • Race and ethnicity
  • Gender and sexual identity
  • Disabilities

This may be different to what is typically used in your home country so it is important that you familiarise yourself with these guidelines.

2 women talking