On Our Mind
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust provides integrated healthcare services including intellectual disability, mental health, community health, forensic and offender healthcare services across Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire.
Our On Our Minds blog shares lived experiences from colleagues at the Trust and patients who use or have used our services on a variety of topics from a wide range of services.
Learning Disability Nurses' Day - Holly Atkinson's story about why she became a learning disability nurse
Holly Atkinson is a Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner in the Community Forensic Intellectual Developmental Disability Team. She is proud to be a registered learning disability nurse (RNLD) for the past 10 years and shares what she loves about being a learning disability nurse for Learning Disability Nurses’ Day.
Why did you become a learning disability nurse?
For the past 10 years, I have proudly worked as a registered learning disability nurse (RNLD). I’ve always championed equality, and this role has given me the opportunity to promote that cause. I hold a deep passion for enhancing the quality of life for those with a learning disability through holistic and individualised support. Over the last two and a half years, I have been working towards my Trainee Advanced Clinical Practice master's qualification. This journey so far has greatly expanded my knowledge and skills, allowing me to deliver enhanced care specifically designed for individuals with learning disabilities to improve health outcomes and overall well-being.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Working as a RNLD within forensic intellectual developmental disability services, I particularly enjoy bridging gaps, breaking down barriers and stigma, providing treatment and rehabilitation, and ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive the appropriate support and care while navigating complex legal challenges. The role allows me to work closely with various professionals, agencies, and family members to enhance the quality of life for the individuals I support.
Why is it so important that we support Learning Disability Nurses’ Day?
For me personally celebrating Learning Disability Nurses’ Day is vital in promoting the rights and needs of those with learning disability while showcasing the incredible work of learning disability nurses. RNLD’s are skilled in finding non-traditional, sustainable solutions to presenting issues, we are experts in advocating for our patients and strive for ensuring equality, personal centred and high-level care.
Any advice for those wishing to start their learning disability nursing career journey.
Pursuing a career in learning disability nursing may come with its challenges, but the rewards are incredibly fulfilling. There are numerous opportunities available, with fresh and innovative roles developing, allowing continued professional development.
You can find out more about our Intellectual and Developmental Disability Service on our recruitment website.
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