A Career in Learning Disability Nursing

Make a Difference Every Day: A Career in Learning Disability Nursing

Learning disability nurses play a key role in supporting individuals with a learning disability to access the care they deserve and live fulfilling, independent lives. During Learning Disability Week, we are highlighting this rewarding career path, which offers variety, purpose and tremendous job satisfaction.

What makes learning disability nursing special?

Learning disability nurses work across many areas in health and social care - from supporting children and young people, adults and older aged adults, to working alongside midwifery and mental health services. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, supporting individuals to overcome barriers, and to receive the care they need.

A flexible career with options

Learning disability nurses work across many diverse settings and services, including:

Hospitals - supporting individuals with any treatments and procedures
Community teams - helping individuals to live independently
Schools - supporting children and young people with a learning disability
Specialist services - focusing on specific individual needs and conditions.

These settings provide learning disability nurses with opportunities to shape their rewarding and fulfilling career around their interests and circumstances, with options for part-time working, regular hours, or shift patterns depending on your setting.

Multiple pathways to qualification

There are several routes to the role:

A dedicated undergraduate degree in learning disability nursing
An apprenticeship combining work and study
Converting from another nursing speciality through additional training.

Financial support is available, with the NHS Learning Support Fund providing eligible undergraduate and postgraduate nursing students with at least £5,000 per year.

A career with progression

The role offers numerous development opportunities, such as specialising in autism, mental health, or epilepsy care, as well as moving into leadership roles, education, or research - helping shape the future of learning disability support.

Make a lasting impact

People with a learning disability can face challenges accessing appropriate healthcare. As a learning disability nurse, you'll help break down barriers, ensuring people receive equal care and support to live their lives to the fullest.

If you're looking for a career that gives genuine purpose, while making a real difference to individual's lives, then the learning disability nurse role could be your calling!

Find out more about becoming a learning disability nurse.

Watch the video of Rebecca talking about her career in LD nursing

Health Careers website

East of England microsite