Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2024

This week we celebrate Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we hear from Jo, Learning Disability Nurse, about what is has been like joining the Trust coming from the City Health Care Partnership (CHCP).

Jo, Learning Disability Nurse

What got you working in your current area?

I have been a Learning Disability Nurse for 27 years and was wishing to return to work more directly with children and young people with additional challenges. I was hoping to be able to use my experience and prescribing qualification to directly benefit patient care. I was informed of the opportunity by my friend who is already employed by Humber (we have also worked together previously for CHCP). I then applied for the post of Non-Medical Prescriber with Humber’s Children and Young People’s Neurodiversity Team, and I am so glad I did.

Where did you work before?

I have worked in various places mostly with children with additional/complex physical health needs. I have undertaken the Advanced paediatric nurse practitioner course 2017-2019 which also gave me a prescribing qualification. I last worked as an Urgent care practitioner at Bransholme UTC caring for children presenting with minor illness and injury.

What drew you to work for Humber Trust and how long have you been in your current role?

I have previously worked for Humber when Sunshine House was within the Trust, so I have had good experience and memories of how Humber support patients and the welfare of staff. Humber had the offer of the role I was seeking (to use prescribing with children with additional needs) and I have now been in my current role for 8 months, with 28 years total experience.

What do you like most about the work you do?

I am very privileged to work with a vast array of children/young people and their families and be able to make a difference to their lives. I am lucky as I get to work in lots of locations in external clinics and learn something new form every child/family- no day is the same.  I have an amazing and supportive team around me who inspire me every day with their knowledge, humour, and care.

Do you enjoy working for Humber, if so, why?

Yes, I do enjoy working for Humber. I enjoy that I am working as part of a new and innovative service that is evolving to best help patient care.  I feel happy that the Trust seems genuinely interested in supporting patients and staff holistically.

What would you say to someone thinking of joining Humber?

I’d say yes absolutely if the role is something you would enjoy, you will get the support to learn and be able to thrive.

What kind of patients do you work with?  

I work with children and young people usually aged 6-18 years with a diagnosis of or suspected ADHD. The young people I work with often have comorbidities (such as Autism, Tourette’s Syndrome).

What can a typical day look like for you?

No day is the same. I usually work from different bases as I hold clinics where patients usually attend. I sometimes do home visits if patient care needs me to do this. I can do admin remotely so can do a few hours a week at home. My base is West End and I usually go there every day to touch base, complete prescriptions and see my colleagues/have peer supervision. I sometimes have student nurses working alongside me. I see patients face-to-face and hole telephone reviews of their response to prescribed ADHD medication and liaise closely with the consultant psychiatrists for safe and effective care. I usually see/telephone approximately 8-9 patients per day and complete admin afterwards and before work the next day. It is a fulfilling role and I enjoy it!