Vicky Wareing, a Forensic Learning Disabilities (LD) Nurse, shows exceptional dedication, empathy, and clinical expertise. Vicky has consistently demonstrated her commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care, and her positive impact extends beyond her clinical responsibilities, enriching both the lives of her patients and the environment within our team.

Vicky is a truly remarkable professional. She works in one of the most challenging areas of nursing—supporting individuals with learning disabilities within a forensic setting, a role that requires not only advanced clinical knowledge but also immense patience, compassion, and resilience. Her ability to connect with patients who often face significant barriers to communication and trust is extraordinary. She takes the time to build relationships, ensuring that each individual feels understood, respected, and valued.

This personal connection helps create a sense of safety and stability for her patients, many of whom come from complex and traumatic backgrounds. In difficult and high-pressure situations, Vicky consistently maintains a calm and composed demeanour. One of her many strengths is her skill in de-escalation during behavioural crises. She approaches every challenge with empathy, employing strategies that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Through her ability to defuse tense moments, she helps prevent potential harm and fosters an environment where patients can feel secure. Her leadership in these moments is invaluable, not only to the patients but also to the multidisciplinary team that relies on her expertise and judgment.

Moreover, Vicky is a strong advocate for individuals with learning disabilities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met, even within the complexities of a forensic system. She is relentless in advocating for appropriate care pathways and individualised treatment plans. She works closely with families and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to care, never hesitating to go the extra mile to secure the best outcomes for her patients. Her empathy extends to her colleagues as well.

Vicky is a mentor and role model to newer nurses, always willing to share her knowledge and experience. She fosters a supportive team environment where questions are welcomed and learning is encouraged. Her leadership and collaborative approach make her an integral part of our team, promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity. Whether she's offering guidance to a colleague or stepping in to provide emotional support after a tough shift, Vicky’s kindness and professionalism are evident in everything she does.

A recent example of Vicky's dedication is her work with a particularly vulnerable patient who struggled with trust issues and significant behavioural challenges. Through weeks of consistent care, gentle communication, and tailored interventions, Vicky was able to build a relationship with this patient that led to marked improvements in both their behaviour and their mental health.

This transformation, which had been difficult to achieve previously, is a testament to her skills, patience, and unwavering belief in the potential for positive change in each individual she supports. Vicky's holistic approach to care extends beyond the immediate clinical setting. She also engages with community resources and multidisciplinary teams to ensure her patients have the best possible care transition when leaving the forensic unit.

Her thoughtful and thorough discharge planning has resulted in smoother transitions for many of her patients, reducing the risk of relapse or re-hospitalisation. Her compassion, advocacy, and clinical expertise make a profound difference in the lives of the individuals she supports, as well as within our team.