Kayna Penrose-Toms began her career here in Lincolnshire by enrolling onto the mental health nursing apprenticeship programme, the Trust delivers in partnership with the University of Lincoln. She is now working as a mental health nurse at Ash Villa in Sleaford.
In this article, Kayna shares an insight into her career journey.
Can you tell us more about how you began your career in mental health?
I was always interested in healthcare – it’s kind of the only thing I wanted to do as I love caring for people. I came across the mental health nursing apprenticeship course through LPFT. It was such a great transition from being an apprentice to becoming an actual mental health nurse and I’ve learnt so much.
Can you tell us more about the apprenticeship?
The mental health nurse apprenticeship is a great opportunity to get your foot in the door and earn a salary whilst you learn so many new skills. It’s a brilliant opportunity and I would recommend it to anyone. There was a lot of support. I had regular meetings with my tutor and mentor at our hub placements to ensure I achieved all of the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to get my degree, as well as pastoral support.
What support did you receive from your manager?
I received regular supervisions during my apprenticeship. My manager has been very supportive of allowing me to continue with my hobbies such as rugby and has allowed me to be flexible with my shifts to be able to participate in the things I want to do outside of work, such as attending rugby matches and training sessions.
Can you tell us more about the mental health nurse role?
At Ash Villa, I care for a range of patients with different needs. It’s not just mental health, it’s supporting people with their physical health needs as well. In my role, I spend time with patients going through stabilisation workbooks and grounding techniques, encouraging them to use different methods of grounding and distraction when they are struggling with negative thoughts and/or self-injurious behaviours.
I support patients to create personalised care plans and find out what their goals are during admission and following discharge. I also spend a lot of time with patients doing different activities such as arts and crafts, wellbeing walks or even a bit of football in the garden to help bring a little bit of positivity to their day.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting an apprenticeship?
I would highly recommend the apprenticeship route, not only are you paid to study, you are also supported every step of the way.
On the ward you’ve got social workers, doctors, all the different bands of nurses, health care support workers, occupational therapists and activity co-ordinators as well as our admin and housekeeping team. I think that’s really good. You can just go to anyone and have that support that you need at any time.
To find out more about our mental health nursing apprenticeships at Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
