Shakira Richards

Compassionate and motivated newly qualified Learning Disability Nurse (BSc Hons) with a dedicated commitment to children, adolescence, and family-centred health and wellbeing. Throughout training and academic achievements, professional development is a key interest of mine in pursuing my goal providing adequate care, support, and advice working within the health and social care sector. Skilled in providing tailored support and advice, commitment to delivering safe, compassionate, individualised care and support can be provided through holistic collaboration and multidisciplinary working. Experienced in supporting families from diverse backgrounds, providing dignified care, upholding equality, and fostering respect with skills to adapt communication to need individualised needs. Participating my role as a Student Representative throughout three years during university, advocating on behalf of others is a passion of mine to ensure meaningful outcomes can be achieved.

Throughout my international elective placement in Zagreb, Croatia, I had the opportunity to observe and compare the different health services and nursing practices in a different culture. This week included time at the Centre of Autism, which provides supported living, residential, pre-schools, all for children with learning disabilities. We also visited Slobostina Centre for rehabilitation, which is a school for children with physical and/or learning disabilities. Working cross-culturally led to experiencing communication difficulties which were overcome by using different methods of non-verbal and visual communication- signs and symbols, PECS, communication boards, etc.

I was a student representative for my course, Learning Disability Nursing, throughout my nursing degree. I actively advocated on behalf of my peers and provided feedback to course leaders and academic staff. Collected feedback was used to re-structure the course and improve student experience. This role strengthened my leadership and teamwork skills.

Attended a Learning Disability Conference in Belfast organised by Queen’s University. Celebration of Learning Disability Nursing and discuss best practice, enhancing care for individuals and their families, person-centred care, promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.

I completed the Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Bronze award in 2017 with peers at school. The award composed of completing four components: volunteering, physical, skills, and an expedition. I completed volunteering in an RSPCA local charity shop, physical activity at my local dance company, skills learnt playing the piano, and an overnight expedition on the coast of Dorset. Throughout the award, I developed teamwork and leadership skills that are transferable into the workforce. Problem-solving and resilience were key skills throughout.