Learning disability nurse

In this role you could:

• support people with learning disabilities to overcome challenges and get equal access to healthcare
•  help people to improve and maintain their physical or mental health
•  assess what kind of care is needed and create a care plan
•  involve the person in all aspects of their care and give advice that is easy to understand
•  manage medicines, give injections and keep confidential records
•  supervise support workers and give advice on how to support people with learning disabilities

• sensitivity and understanding
• knowledge of psychology
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• active listening skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.

With experience you could:

• lead a team of nurses or manage a learning disability unit
•  become a community matron, director of nursing or train to become a health visitor
•  become an advanced nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist or nurse consultant if you have a postgraduate qualification
•  move into teaching or research