A Nursing Pioneer in Brighton & Hove
Dolly Bhagwandin’s story is one of courage, determination, and quiet influence. Born in Guyana, South America, she went on to become one of the first West Indian nurses to train and work in Brighton and Hove. Her journey was not only groundbreaking, but also deeply inspiring – helping to shape the nursing profession and open doors for future generations.
Early Life and Journey to Brighton
Dolly was born into a middle-class family in Guyana, where her parents owned and ran a hotel. Her childhood was safe and comfortable, filled with the warmth of close family and a strong sense of ambition. Inspired by her brother, who chose to study medicine, Dolly made the bold decision to pursue nursing. At the time, there were no official recruitment programmes to help nurses move abroad from Guyana, so Dolly applied to train in the UK on her own.
She chose Brighton General Hospital for her training, drawn by the idea of living by the sea. In 1956, she arrived in Brighton with no contacts and little knowledge of what to expect. It was a major cultural shift – new climate, new customs, and a new way of life – but she faced it all with quiet strength.
Training and Overcoming Barriers
As the first West Indian woman to train at Brighton General Hospital, Dolly stood out. She was entering a world where very few people looked like her or shared her background. The training itself was strict and demanding. Student nurses were expected to perform every task to the highest standard – from ward duties to personal patient care – with no room for error.
Despite the pressure and isolation, Dolly thrived. She quickly gained the respect of her colleagues and became known for her warmth, reliability, and attention to detail. She also had to adjust to British food, routines, and social norms – a challenge that many overseas nurses of the time faced. But she embraced her new life and formed meaningful friendships, including with fellow nurse Joan Johnson, who would become both a close friend and trusted mentor.
Career Achievements and Lasting Impact
Dolly’s professional life was marked by both success and service. After completing her training, she went on to work in several roles within the NHS, including general nursing and midwifery. She was widely respected for her compassionate approach and dedication to patient care.
During her training, she was awarded Nurse of the Year – a prestigious achievement that recognised her commitment and excellence. But Dolly’s impact went beyond her own work. She became a mentor to other nurses, especially those from Guyana and the wider West Indies, helping them navigate the same challenges she had faced years earlier. Many nurses in Brighton credit Dolly with supporting and guiding them through their own journeys.
Personal Reflections and Legacy
After completing her training, Dolly briefly returned to Guyana before settling in the United States with her family, where she continued her nursing career. Despite living abroad, she never lost her connection to Brighton. She kept in touch with the friends she made there and often spoke fondly of the city that had shaped her both professionally and personally.
Dolly was passionate about the value of diversity and believed her time in Brighton helped make her stronger, wiser, and more compassionate. Her story is a reminder of how much can be achieved when individuals are given the chance to thrive, even in unfamiliar surroundings.
Honouring a Legacy
Dolly Bhagwandin’s life stands as a powerful example of resilience, service, and quiet leadership. Her influence on nursing in Brighton and Hove, and on the many lives she touched, is still felt today.
By remembering Dolly’s story, we honour not just her personal achievements, but the importance of diversity, mentorship, and kindness in building a more inclusive and compassionate society.
