NURSES who support people with learning disabilities gathered to celebrate 100 years of their specialist profession.

Past and present nurses gathered at Bulbury Woods Golf Club near Poole and enjoyed a commemorative cake as they discussed the development of the service over the years.

The Learning Disability (LD) Nurses Team at Dorset HealthCare offers practical help with physical and mental health problems, relationships, behaviours and communication.

Staff work closely with families, carers and GPs to ensure the care and support provided is tailored to the needs of the individual, helping people live safely and healthily in the community.

Susannah Bailey, 44, from Bournemouth, has a disability and was supported by the team for six years. She had previously felt depressed and had little motivation but things changed when Ginny Boniface, her LD Nurse, worked with her to create a wellbeing plan.

Whenever Susannah was feeling down, the plan gave her visuals and prompts of things to make her feel better, such as call a friend, have a cup of tea or play a game.

Her mental wellbeing improved and she became more independent, developing new interests and a love of cooking, in particular.

Susannah said: “Ginny was a very kind nurse, provided great advice and helped me to get better. I am more independent now and feel happier. She made a real difference to my life.”

Susannah continues to receive regular physiotherapy from the Trust, and she helps interview potential new LD nurses, providing valuable input from a patient’s point of view.

To find out more regarding Dorset HealthCare’s learning disability services across the county, go to learningdisabilitiesdorset.uk