Dedicated Whalley nurse scoops national award

It was a little under two years ago that Calderstones senior staff nurse Lynsey Brown was awarded the status of “Nursing Times Rising Star” for her work with learning disabled offenders in prison.

And last week at an event in London, Lynsey was one of just 25 UK nurses selected for making a huge contribution to improving the lives of an extremely vulnerable and disadvantaged group.

Susan Warburton, Deputy Director of Nursing at NHS England, thanked Lynsey on Twitter: “Great news that fab staff at Calderstones are recognised”. Lynsey, who lives in the Ribble Valley, said: “As a forensic learning disability service the nurses within the Trust hold unique skills and these have been influential in making such positive change. Presentations at national and local conferences have helped raise awareness of the challenges and inequalities that individuals with learning disabilities face.” Calderstones CEO Mark Hindle has worked closely with Lynsey on a number of projects. He said: “At a time when learning disability services are very much under the spotlight, it is a source of huge pride that some of the very best national experts have once again supported and celebrated the value of LD nursing.”