Mark a newly appointed Learning Disability Nurse tells us why he wanted to be a Learning Disability Nurse

Why did you become a learning disability nurse

I became an LD Nurse due to experiences I had with people with intellectual disabilities which showed me that they are not only societies most vulnerable & misunderstood members but also the funniest, caring and best members of our community. I wanted to support them to live healthier, safer and more person centred lives whilst educating the community to better support our wonderful people with intellectual disabilities.

How do you make a difference in your everyday work

I passionately provide advocacy to people with intellectual disabilities, their families and their circles of support by using not only my own experiences, knowledge and skillset’s as a nurse and behavioural specialist but working in collaboration with brilliant clinical and non-clinical colleagues such as social services and private care providers to ensure those that need our support receive the best possible care.  

What is your proudest moment as a Learning Disability Nurse

I was asked to support a person who had deemed as too challenging for support from any care/respite providers who had become completely isolated. His physical and mental health were poor and he was a risk of being admitted to a Tier 4 provision. Almost a year later he was back into the community and wonderfully gained employment which helped him to increase his inclusivity in society which led to improvements in his health.   

What would you say to someone thinking of starting a Learning Disability Nursing career

I LOVE being an intellectual disability nurse. Its thought provoking, emotional, interesting, hard work but incredibly rewarding. You’ll laugh and you’ll cry, you’ll go the extra mile and then some all to achieve the best possible health and social care outcomes for those wonderful people with Intellectual disabilities and when those outcomes are achieved……that feeling…..that’s what being an LD Nurse is all about!!!

Mark, Learning Disability Nurse