“It’s my job to ensure that the individuals and families I work with have access to all the resources needed to live their best possible lives.”

I am a clinical nurse specialist in the mental health sector because I want to make a significant difference in people’s lives.

Mental health allows me to do this as we look at the whole person and the various teams involved work together to change adversity and inequality for those we help.

In my work I provide leadership in maintaining a high quality nursing practice within the Forensic ID service, which includes ensuring continuity and consistency across the different teams involved.

I also provide nursing leadership, training and support to staff in establishing best practice initiatives and implementing the Positive Behaviour Support model of care.

So I’m an advocate, an educator, and a voice for consumers and staff. It’s my job to ensure that the individuals and families I work with have access to all the resources needed to live their best possible lives.

I’m really hoping that in this DHB/NZNO MECA the voice of nurses is heard and their value to the health system will be recognised through better conditions and wages.

This would improve many aspects of my life. I would be far more productive and effective at doing my job. I would not have to work overtime every week in order to get by, and my family would see much more of me!