A group of eight Learning Disability Nurses, with the generous support of The Burdett Trust for Nursing, have launched ‘Think COULD,’ an original animated feature aimed at raising awareness of the need for improved support for individuals with learning disabilities within the justice system.
The animation, which was first screened on 18th May during a virtual event hosted by QNIS, serves as a vital resource for professionals who work within the justice system. Its primary objective is to raise awareness about the diverse needs of individuals with learning disabilities, emphasising the fact that they may mask their condition, have reduced understanding of their actions, or have additional support needs.
Shirley Baines, Chief Executive, The Burdett Trust for Nursing
Shirley Baines, Chief Executive of the Burdett Trust for Nursing, said: “We were delighted to be able to support the Queen’s Nurses by funding this valuable project. I hope that those working in the justice system will find it useful and that people with learning disabilities will benefit from an increased understanding of their needs.”
By nurturing understanding and providing practical tips, ‘Think COULD’ aims to empower justice system staff to adapt their actions and communication effectively.
© Lesley Martin 2021 | e: lesley@lesleymartin.co.uk | t: 07836745264
From left to right: Catriona Jamieson, Rachel Gardiner, Craig Bell, Karen Laing, Carole Morrow, Heather Duff, Kerry Anderson, Zoe Lightbody.
“We are thrilled to introduce ‘Think COULD’ to the public,” said the Learning Disability Queen’s Nurses who led the project. “Our aim is to promote a more inclusive and understanding environment for individuals with learning disabilities, and this animation is an essential tool towards achieving that goal. We are immensely grateful to The Burdett Trust for Nursing and to QNIS for their support throughout this journey.”
Clare Cable, Chief Executive and Nurse Director, QNIS
Clare Cable, Chief Executive and Nurse Director, QNIS, said: “This group of Learning Disability Queen’s Nurses are driving positive change for individuals with learning disabilities, ensuring they receive equitable treatment and fair access to justice. I believe that this animated feature can make a difference. I am incredibly proud of the collaborative effort behind ‘Think COULD,’ and extend our gratitude to The Burdett Trust for Nursing for funding this project.”
‘Think COULD’ is now available for viewing and distribution. Interested individuals, organisations, and professionals working across sectors, particularly in justice are encouraged to access and share the animation widely, promoting greater awareness and understanding of the needs of people with a learning disability within the justice system.
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For more information about ‘Think COULD’ or any of the nurses in the Learning Disability Queen’s Nurse cohort please contact QNIS Digital Engagement Manager, Tasha Prigmore at comms@qnis.org.uk
About The Burdett Trust for Nursing
- The Burdett Trust for Nursing is an independent charitable trust that aims to make a lasting impact on patient care in nursing. They support innovative projects and initiatives that enhance nursing knowledge, skills, and practice.
About the Learning Disability Queen’s Nurses
- The Learning Disability Queen’s Nurse cohort is a group of dedicated healthcare professionals who completed the QNIS Queen’s Nurse Development Programme in 2021.
- Together, the group worked on a joint issue for development to enhance the quality of care, raise awareness, and advocate for the needs of individuals with learning disabilities in the justice system.
- The group is comprised of the following nurses:
- Kerry Anderson, Nurse Consultant – Learning Disability, NHS Grampian
- Craig Bell, Additional Support Team – Nurse Lead, NHS Forth Valley
- Heather Duff, Nurse Team Leader, East Lothian Community Learning Disability Team, NHS Lothian
- Rachel Gardiner, Forensic Community Learning Disability Charge Nurse, NHS Borders
- Catriona Jamieson, Learning Disability Nurse and Specialist Epilepsy Nurse, PAMIS
- Karen Laing, Community Learning Disability Nurse, NHS Tayside
- Zoe Lightbody, Ward Manager, The Ayr Clinic
- Carole Morrow, Senior Nurse, Mental Health, Learning Disability and Addiction Services, NHS Lanarkshire
About QNIS (Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland)
- QNIS is a charitable organisation which supports community-based nurses and midwives to be the best they can be, enabling them to become catalysts for change in their communities. They work to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities through education, research, and innovation.
- Queen’s Nurses worked throughout Scotland as district nurses until 1969 when the title ceased to be awarded. In 2017, QNIS reintroduced the title, awarding it to 20 community nurses who undertook a new Queen’s Nurse Development Programme. Selection is through nomination by health boards or other employers.
- There are now 150 modern Queen’s Nurses in Scotland.
Really well done – proud to work alongside one of the Queens Nurses involved in this project.
Thank you, Lorna. If you would like any more information about the resource please do email comms@qnis.org.uk
Valuable and useful resource. Thank you
Thanks for your comment, Professor Brown. If you would like any more information about the resource or wish to share this locally please do email comms@qnis.org.uk and we can provide you with some additional information.