Learning Disabilities Nurse in Bristol

Provide high-quality, person-centred nursing care to adults and/or children with complex learning disabilities and associated health needs in their own homes. You will work autonomously within a community setting, support paid carers, ensure safe clinical practice, and deliver specialist LD nursing interventions that promote independence, wellbeing and positive risk-taking. The role blends hands‑on clinical work with professional leadership, training and quality assurance.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Care & Specialist Support

• Deliver safe and effective nursing care for people with complex LD, autism and co‑existing physical, sensory, behavioural or mental health needs.
• Undertake holistic assessments, risk assessments and ongoing reviews.
• Create, implement and evaluate person‑centred care plans and clinical support plans.
• Support clients with complex health interventions such as:
• Enteral feeding (PEG/PEJ)
• Tracheostomy care (if applicable)
• Respiratory support
• Behavioural distress and positive behaviour support
• Monitor physical and mental health changes and escalate concerns urgently and appropriately.
• Use LD nursing expertise to maximise independence, promote communication, reduce restrictive practice and improve quality of life.

Leadership, Training & Clinical Governance

• Provide clinical guidance, coaching and supervision to Support Workers / HCAs.
• Deliver competency assessments, refreshers and annual sign‑offs for carers delivering delegated healthcare tasks.
• Ensure compliance with clinical protocols, NICE guidance, organisational policies and CQC regulations.
• Participate in incident reviews, root cause analysis, and learning processes to improve safety and care quality.
• Contribute to audits including medication, infection control, care plans and documentation.
• Support safe onboarding of new packages and transitions of care from hospital to home.
• Act as an advocate for clients, ensuring their voices, rights and preferences are central to all decisions.
• Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns in line with local authority and organisational procedures.
• Implement positive risk-taking approaches, balancing autonomy with safe practice.
• Follow Duty of Candour requirements and maintain openness and transparency.
• Work alongside MDT members: GPs, LD teams, SALT, OT, physio, psychiatry, behaviour specialists and social workers.
• Build strong relationships with families, promoting trust and partnership.
• Represent the organisation in MDT meetings, reviews and case conferences.
• Maintain professional, timely documentation to support continuity of care and legal compliance.

Professional Development

• Maintain NMC registration and follow the NMC Code of Conduct.
• Engage in reflective practice, clinical supervision and ongoing CPD.
• Contribute to service development, quality improvement and better ways of working.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (Learning Disabilities) with valid NMC PIN.
• Experience supporting individuals with complex LD and behaviours that may challenge.
• Strong understanding of PBS (Positive Behaviour Support) and trauma‑informed care.
• Skilled in risk assessment, care planning and managing clinical complexity.
• Confident working autonomously in community settings.
• Excellent communication skills across multidisciplinary teams and with families.
• Ability to train and supervise support staff.
• Full UK driving licence (if travel is required).