The challenges with nurse recruitment have encouraged all of us to think creatively.
Through University job fairs it was clear that a percentage of learning disability nurses were
expressing an interest in working within neurodisability.
There had been some learning disability nurses practicing effectively within the Unit through bank
shifts and it was felt that recruitment targeting this field of practice equally alongside adult nurses
may bring a new blend of skills and experience that would benefit patients and staff.
In early 2017 job profiles etc. were altered, advertised and an open day held for possible applicants.
This attracted 42 applicants, an unprecedented number for previous recruitment drives, of which
36 were appointable. The majority of applicants and those appointable were learning disability
nurses.
All vacant posts had been filled from this exercise and the learning disability nurses have successfully
integrated into the nursing team and reported a very positive experience to Gillian McConvey, Ward
Sister.
The nurses have achieved the level of competence expected and safeguards are in place to ensure
an appropriate balance of Learning Disability and Adult Nurses is available on every shift.
We are now at the point of exploring career frameworks for learning disability nurses working in
Thompson House and other acute adult nursing environments to increase the likelihood of retention
of these nurses.
Recruitment of Learning Disability Nurses in
Thompson House
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