Published on: 30 January 2024
A Derbyshire Healthcare school nurse has recently featured on a new national podcast series for school nurses, by school nurses.
Susie Scales, Clinical Lead School Nurse at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, appeared on the School Nursing Uncovered podcast to discuss the role of a school nurse, what it involves and the importance of health promotion.
Susie, who last year was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Nurse award, explained what is unique about a school nurse – such as confidentiality being key in this area of work. Susie said: “It is important that children feel safe and confident in the relationship you share with them, so trust is established early on. Not only is important to understand the health needs of a young person, but it is also essential to understand their holistic needs too.”
The School Nursing Uncovered podcast, produced by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust’s Digital Health Transformation Service (DHTS) and the School and Public Health Nurses Association (SAPHNA), features school nurses discussing the challenges and issues affecting children, young people and families including covering the role of the school nurse, mental health, vaping, gender identity, safeguarding and healthy lifestyles.
During this episode, SAPHNA's Professional Officer, Sallyann Sutton also speaks to School Nurses from Warwickshire, Derby City and Leeds to discover their thoughts on defining the role of the School Nurse.
Susan Earnshaw, Area Service Manager for 0-19 Children’s Services at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to support school nurses across the country, particularly from a recruitment perspective too for any budding school nurses.
“The podcast provides a knowledge-driven conversation celebrating our school nursing workforce and some of the fantastic talents that make up its profession, such as Susie.
“Susie continues to share her learnings and expertise, promoting the role of a school nurse with pride. She is a credit to the NHS and we’re very lucky to learn from her.”
The latest episodes of the School Nursing Uncovered are now available. You can listen to the podcast through Apple Podcasts or search ‘School Nursing Uncovered’ on any podcast app.
