Michelle McAteer - PgDip Community Nursing Specialist Practitioner (Learning Disability Nursing)

Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Trust

Why did you choose an apprenticeship?

I chose an apprenticeship to increase my skills and knowledge and support further career progression in community learning disability nursing. Now, I'm developing leadership skills to aid service development around supporting women with a learning disability and menopause, and leading on learning disability complex care at an advanced level.

Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?

The course is fast paced and challenging but it's building and broadening my skills and knowledge. The academic modules are linked to my practice, which is developing my knowledge in areas I have identified as interests in my future practice.

What has been your proudest achievement during your apprenticeship?

I think a moment that stands out for me is being asked to lead on the menopause learning disabilities sub pathway at Trust level. Since being an undergraduate, I have always had a passion to improve outcomes for our most vulnerable patients. I had an article published in the learning disability practice journal and was asked to contribute to a comment article highlighting how awareness of menopause support for women with learning disabilities needs to be increased to address health inequity. 

Being asked by my trust to lead on this vital area as part of my current apprenticeship is an achievement I'm proud of. I am currently leading a team to implement the Trust's menopause learning disability pathway as part of the physical health model of care across Lancashire and South Cumbria. 

How would you describe the support that you’ve received from the University of Salford?

The lecturers and staff are knowledgeable and approachable, delivering interesting lectures that continue to develop us as practitioners.

Do you have any advice for future apprentices?

Go for it! Who knows where your journey will take you. Follow your dream.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are an excellent route into Learning Disability Nursing. Having the support and knowledge of my Trust’s apprenticeship team, University support and colleagues from a wide variety of nursing specialities brings an extra edge to your practice. Being paid to progress in a field of nursing I am passionate about is just the icing on the cake!