Nursing R2RN

Learning disability nursing is a professional specialism within nursing that works with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, supporting them to live as fully and independently as possible and to access healthcare, education, social care and community life on equal terms with others. Learning disability nurses take a person-centred approach, working to understand the individual behind the disability, advocating for their rights and preferences, and coordinating with the range of services and professionals who may be involved in their care. The role requires both clinical nursing competence and a deep commitment to equality, inclusion and human rights.

Nottingham Trent University's Return to Registered Nurse (R2RN) programme in learning disabilities is a three-year full-time route designed for nurses who are returning to practice after a break, refreshing and building on prior nursing knowledge to restore competence for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council in the learning disabilities field. The typical entry tariff is around 120 UCAS points, and the programme includes substantial NHS-approved clinical placement hours in settings relevant to learning disability nursing practice.

You will study the anatomy, physiology and psychology of learning disability, communication with people with complex needs, health promotion and prevention, medicines management, legal and ethical frameworks including the Mental Capacity Act, and the practice of person-centred care planning. Clinical placements in community learning disability teams, specialist hospitals, residential settings and supported living environments provide the breadth of practical experience required for professional registration.

Graduates of learning disability nursing programmes register with the NMC and work in community learning disability teams, inpatient specialist services, schools for children with complex needs, supported living services and challenging behaviour support teams. Senior clinical, team leadership, management and practice education roles are available with experience. Many learning disability nurses develop particular expertise in areas such as epilepsy, mental health in people with learning disabilities, autism, or positive behaviour support.

Postgraduate study in specialist learning disability practice, health facilitation or leadership is a well-supported route for career development.