From Kharkiv to the UK’s health service: Ukrainian doctor rebuilds her life – and helps others do the same
Dr. Inna Soldatenko: A Journey from Kharkiv to London’s NHS
From Kharkiv to the UK s health – Three years after the start of the war in Ukraine, Dr. Inna Soldatenko now finds herself in the heart of London’s National Health Service (NHS), practicing medicine in a role that mirrors her former life in Kharkiv. Yet the path from her shattered homeland to this new chapter was anything but straightforward. On 23 February 2022, the day Russian forces began their full-scale invasion, Inna’s routine was interrupted by the chaos of war. She had just finished work, picked up her daughter from school, and prepared dinner when the first explosions shook her city. That night, her world changed forever.
A Life Upended by War
For decades, Inna had built a life defined by her medical career, her family, and the stability of her home in Kharkiv. As a consultant rheumatologist, she had dedicated herself to treating patients and advancing her expertise in a field she deeply loved. But the invasion brought an abrupt end to that stability. Inna lost not only her professional identity but also her home and the sense of security that had sustained her for years. Her family, including her two daughters, parents, and a cherished cat, became refugees overnight.
The war’s toll was immediate and profound. Inna and her loved ones fled Kharkiv, embarking on a grueling journey that spanned over 26 hours through Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania. With only a few documents and belongings, they sought refuge in unfamiliar territories. Along the way, they encountered strangers who offered food, shelter, and compassion—acts of kindness that would later become the foundation of Inna’s gratitude.
Rebuilding in the UK
Arriving in the UK in May 2022 via the Homes for Ukraine scheme, Inna found a new home in southeast London. This community-driven initiative, which allows UK citizens to sponsor displaced Ukrainians, provided her with not just a place to stay but the opportunity to rebuild her life. Initially, she faced hurdles in re-entering the medical profession, including language barriers and the challenge of having her qualifications recognized abroad.
Despite these obstacles, Inna began her career in an administrative role with the Lewisham and Greenwich Trust, a key NHS provider. Her colleagues quickly became more than coworkers—they became a support system. Through their guidance, she improved her English, gained confidence, and took the necessary steps to qualify as a doctor in the UK. “They believed in me much more than I believed in myself,” she reflected, acknowledging the pivotal role their encouragement played in her progress.
Inna’s determination paid off. She successfully passed all required exams and returned to her specialization in rheumatology, resuming direct patient care. Her resilience has not only allowed her to reclaim her professional purpose but also to contribute to the broader effort of integrating Ukrainian refugees into the UK workforce.
A Ripple Effect of Welcome
As one of over 260,000 Ukrainians who have sought refuge in the UK since the invasion, Inna’s story is emblematic of the collective journey of displaced individuals. More than 60,000 of them are now employed across various sectors, a testament to the nation’s commitment to supporting their transition. Inna’s path, however, took an additional turn when she collaborated with other refugee healthcare professionals to establish the Ukrainian Medical Charity—a national network designed to connect displaced doctors, nurses, and health workers with NHS employment opportunities.
This initiative has become a vital bridge, helping Ukrainians navigate the complexities of the UK healthcare system while fostering collaboration among professionals from diverse backgrounds. Inna’s advocacy has also influenced the creation of the NHS Refugee Employment Programme, which aims to facilitate the integration of refugees into the health sector. “Refugees want to give back to this country, and we have a duty to welcome them as well,” said Kathleen, a rheumatology clinical nurse specialist and Inna’s colleague, underscoring the mutual benefits of such partnerships.
Today, Inna balances work and family life in London, describing her existence as “just like an ordinary person.” Yet, the emotional weight of her journey remains deeply etched in her memory. She often recalls the warmth of strangers in Ukraine, the resilience shown by those who stayed behind, and the transformative effect of kindness in times of crisis.
Reflections on Resilience and Hope
Inna’s perspective on displacement is both personal and universal. “When you’re forced to flee, it’s like your roots are cut,” she explained, emphasizing the vulnerability of leaving behind everything familiar. However, she credits the NHS and its people with helping her grow new roots. The stability and compassion she encountered in London, she said, were like “sunshine on your garden”—a metaphor for the life-changing impact of a welcoming environment.
Her experience highlights the broader significance of refugee integration programs. By providing skilled workers with the tools to adapt and thrive, these initiatives not only bolster the UK’s healthcare system but also empower individuals to rebuild their lives. Inna’s story, intertwined with the collective efforts of thousands of Ukrainians, demonstrates how resilience and opportunity can converge to create meaningful change.
As the war in Ukraine continues, Inna’s story serves as a reminder of the power of community and the enduring human spirit. Her journey from Kharkiv to London is not just one of survival but of transformation, proving that even in the face of upheaval, the promise of a new beginning can flourish. Through her work and advocacy, she continues to inspire others, ensuring that the spirit of welcome she once received remains a guiding force for those who follow.