What is Learning Disability Nursing?
Learning disability nurses give people with a learning disability the help, care and skills they need to lead a healthier and more independent life, working closely with
their family and carers.
Learning Disability NMC Information Sheet
Who do Learning Disability Nurses Work With?
Learning disability nurses work as a member of team with other professionals in settings such as specialist residential and community centres, schools or adult education as well as hospitals and the community.
What skills and qualities would I need?
The Learning disability nurses’ health care environment is both rewarding and challenging. At times a patient’s progress may be slow but there is great joy and satisfaction for everyone when the individual learns something new which develops their self-confidence. A learning disability nurse needs:
- Communication Skills - excellent interpersonal skills and communication abilities are needed when dealing with a variety of people from different backgrounds.
- Emotionally Strong - To be good at problem-solving and strong when dealing with patients is helpful.
- Commitment - An adult has to be fully committed to continued learning throughout your career.
- Other Skills - A learning disability nurse needs to be creative, adaptable and flexible and be prepared to act as an advocate to prevent discrimination.
What Courses can I choose from?
In Northern Ireland the only university where you can study learning disability nursing is Queen's University:
Queen's University
Course name - BSc Honours/Diploma in Nursing
For more information visit the
Queen's University Website
