Learning Disability Nurse Wins Unsung Hero Award
This summer Learning Disabilities Liaison Nurse Alan Lawson won Scotland’s 2018 Unsung Hero Award at the annual Scottish Learning Disability Nursing Network conference in Glasgow.
The Unsung Hero Award recognises the outstanding contribution that Alan, who is based at the Borders General Hospital, has made as a Learning Disability Nurse working in Scotland.
Claire Pearce, Director of Nursing, Midwifery & Acute Services, said: “Alan was nominated for the award because he goes above and beyond, continually coming up with new and different ways to support service users so that their experience of accessing mainstream healthcare is improved. We are delighted that Alan’s hard work and professional commitment has been recognised nationally.”
It’s clear that the 2018 Unsung Hero Award is well deserved in the Borders, with our Learning Disability Service receiving many compliments about Alan from service users and carers alike, such as:
“I didn’t have many visitors and Alan took time to make sure I was OK. He is very helpful for my staff also.”
“Alan was excellent in all aspects of care he gave to support the service user every time she attended her hospital appointments. He has a very calm relaxed fun manner. Credit to your team.”
“He made life simpler for my client. He spent a lot of time with my client giving encouragement and re-assurance.”
Speaking about winning the award, Alan added: “I am very proud to receive this award as a member of Scottish Borders Learning Disability Service. As a team, with both NHS Borders and Scottish Borders Council colleagues, we strive to improve standards of care and communication to promote a positive experience for people with learning disabilities accessing mainstream healthcare.”
The Scottish Borders Learning Disability Service provides specialist health and social care for adults with learning disabilities such as assessment, care management, treatment, and training and support.
