Our achievements

Posted on 30 May 2022

We are very proud of Nicola Shinn, Ward Manager at Aintree Ward, Rampton Hospital who has been shortlisted for the Social Care COVID Hero Award in the Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards 2022.

Nicola was nominated by a colleague as her passion and commitment to ensuring the best possible care for those within the service with autism and learning disabilities has been unwavering. She continuously brings innovative ideas to the ward environment, including looking at the sensory environment, reasonable adjustments. Also looking at how staff team members who have autism or a learning disability can be better supported.

Nicola said:

“I was surprised but I am so appreciative to have been nominated! I thoroughly enjoy my role and really do hope to bring further support and development to the autism service within high security. We’ve experienced some challenges during the COVID pandemic but to see the service developing despite these is brilliant.”

Nicola continuously promotes positive use of terminology on the ward and can often be found speaking to team members about our patient group and explaining how the individual’s autism may impact on their responses to certain situations.

Dr Sue Elcock, Executive Medical Director/Executive Director of Forensic Services said:

“Working within high secure forensic services naturally comes with it’s challenges. However, since taking over as ward manager on Aintree Ward around 18 months ago, Nicola has worked extremely hard. She has wholeheartedly taken on the responsibility and role of ward manager and ensured patients and staff get the best possible support. Well done Nicola for this well-deserved recognition, good luck for the next stage”

Winners announced at a ceremony in Birmingham on 8 July. More on the awards here: National Learning Disability Awards (nationalldawards.co.uk).