Alice Imhankon, a Nigerian wife and mother of three, is having to alter her 2024 relocation plans. The UK, once among her favored destinations due to its appeal for caregivers with young families, has now been struck off her list.

A ban on migrant care workers bringing their families into the country has forced Alice to explore alternatives that won't separate her from her loved ones.

"It would affect me leaving my family behind," says Alice. "I don't think I'll be able to function as I would have if I had had the opportunity to move with my family. So, it really affects me and might make me even consider not relocating as a caregiver to the UK."

In 2022, despite the government's stated intention to reduce migration into the country, the UK witnessed a record-high increase, with 745,000 people entering the country. This included individuals studying, working as caregivers, among others.

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As a countermeasure to bring down these numbers to please anti-immigration sentiment in the UK, the government has now implemented stricter measures. Starting next month, migrants will face increased costs for health insurance services and more stringent income visa requirements.

"We understand that, in the midst of all this economic meltdown, they have to raise funds to fund their economy, " Joshua Edohen, a migration recruitment expert tells CGTN. "I think if they do that alone, it's fine, but don't take away the incentive."

The UK's social care workforce crisis was exacerbated by the pandemic, but it already had low pay and challenging working conditions, meaning many UK nationals don't want the job.

Migrants from Nigeria and other countries played a crucial role in filling vacancies in the care industry due to family-friendly incentives. Experts argue that the recent UK policy will deter migrant workers, deepening already worrying personnel gaps in the care sector.

"It's going to discourage people from coming, and the effect is going to have on the healthcare system is that with time, there'll be shortages in that sector," says Edohen.

Before the recent policy changes, UK immigration policies were in some areas favorable to other countries. However, data from recruitment agencies indicates that Nigerians are now turning to Canada, the UAE, and other destinations.

Now, many migrants looking to come to the UK are willing to put their plans on hold to find options offering better prospects. And as they grapple with these significant decisions, mirroring a broader narrative, these policy shifts extend beyond borders, influencing lives and reshaping global migration dynamics.

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