Vik’s story
“It’s about truly understanding the person, not just their needs. What continues to inspire me is the people I care for.”
As a Learning Disability Charge Nurse at Mental Health Intensive Support and Therapy Team (MHIST) my role is a balance of leadership, clinical care, and advocacy. I support and guide the nursing team while ensuring that the people we care for receive safe, person centred care.
A typical day involves coordinating the service, supporting staff, administering or overseeing care, liaising with families and the wider multidisciplinary team, and making sure each patient’s voice is heard in decisions about their care. No two days are ever the same, which keeps the role both challenging and rewarding.
I’ve always been drawn to helping people and making a difference, but learning disability nursing stood out to me because it is holistic and relationship based – it’s about truly understanding the person, not just their needs. What continues to inspire me is the people I care for. Their resilience, individuality, and the trust they place in us is incredibly motivating. Supporting them to live fulfilling lives and ensuring they are heard and respected is what drives me every day.
A good day at work is when the people we support feel safe, valued, and empowered. It’s when communication has been positive, staff feel supported, and we’ve worked together as a team to overcome challenges. For example, a really good day might be when a patient achieves something meaningful to them – no matter how small it may seem. That could be engaging in an activity they’ve been anxious about or expressing their needs more confidently. Those moments are incredibly rewarding and remind me why I chose to become a Learning Disability nurse.
What keeps me motivated are the small wins – seeing progress, building trust, and knowing I’ve made a difference to someone’s day. Supporting patients, families, and carers, and advocating for them to be at the forefront of their care is something I’m deeply passionate about.
One of my proudest achievements is being promoted to Charge Nurse within just 10 months of qualifying. It was a huge milestone for me and a real reflection of my hard work, dedication, and passion for the role. It gave me confidence in my abilities and reinforced that I am making a positive impact in the field of Learning Disability Nursing.
To anyone considering nursing, I would say it is one of the most rewarding careers you can choose. It can be challenging, but the impact you have on people’s lives is incredible. Stay compassionate, stay patient, and always remember why you started – because that will carry you through even the toughest days.
Read all Humans of Scotland stories here.
In connection with Humans of Scotland, the ALLIANCE Person Centred Voices team launched a short film. In it, we hear from some of the incredible nurses and midwives we’ve had the honour of meeting over the years. This film is a celebration of person centred care, professional pride, and the human connections that sit at the heart of nursing and midwifery. You can watch the film here.
End of page.