Letters extra - July 2012

Dear Bulletin

It was an amazing experience for the Learning Disability Forum to lead the launch of the RCN new DVD resource The Power and Importance of learning disability nursing and the Support Learning Disability Nursing campaign at Congress.

The DVD highlights examples of learning disability nursing practice from across the UK and the difference they make to the health of people with learning disabilities and their families.

Peter Cranham, a man with learning disabilities shared his personal experiences that moved the floor at Congress to give him a standing ovation. While celebrating the achievements of learning disability nurses and the excellent work that they do, there are significant issues in relation to education, workforce development and leadership that need to be addressed across the UK.

Tackling these issues now is vital to ensure that people with learning disabilities and their families have access to the knowledge and skills necessary to address their health needs and enable their inclusion.

There is an opportunity for all nursing staff to pledge their support to learning disability nursing by registering online.