Transforming Lives Through Care: Roharne | Our blog

At South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, dedicated professionals like Roharne play an essential role in transforming lives and delivering high-quality care. Since joining the Trust in 2017, Roharne has served as a Transforming Care Nurse, working within both the Placement Monitoring Team and the Intensive Support Team for Southwark.   

• Placement Monitoring Team : Roharne supports patients placed in out-of-area private hospitals, working to transition them back into the community to enhance their quality of life.  

• Intensive Support Team : This team focuses on preventing hospital admissions and family breakdowns caused by behaviours that challenge. Roharne provides essential support to patients and their families who are at risk of crisis.  

The Transforming Care Agenda is part of NHS England's Learning Disability and Autism Programme. The initiative focuses on improving health and care services to enable people with learning disabilities to live in the community with the appropriate support, close to their family homes.

Roharne explains:

Each day brings different challenges, different acuities, and varying demands, which means prioritisation is key.

The Challenges and Rewards  

Working across different teams and with multiple stakeholders such as ICBs (Integrated Care Boards), social workers, and NHS England, Roharne often finds herself navigating complex dynamics.  

Despite the challenges, the rewards are immeasurable. Roharne describes the profound sense of accomplishment she feels when patients are successfully discharged after years in hospital.

Seeing patients transition into supported living or bespoke accommodations adapted to their needs is incredibly rewarding. It's about upholding their rights and enhancing their quality of life.

A Journey of Growth and Learning  

Roharne joined the Trust as a Clinical Charge Nurse on the Lishman Unit. With extensive experience in neurology and a background in private healthcare, her ambition was to join the NHS, and South London and Maudsley stood out for its supportive environment.  

During her time on the Lishman Unit, Roharne completed her degree in mental health nursing and mentorship training, thanks to the funding and encouragement she received.

Senior management has always  recognised my potential and supported my career progression. 

After two years, she moved to a Site Liaison role in Lewisham before transitioning to her current position in the Transforming Care programme in June 2020. This role allowed her to transfer her neuro skills to a neurodevelopmental service, further broadening her expertise . Roharne is currently pursuing a part-time Master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice, balancing her studies with work.  

Inspiration and Memorable Moments  

Roharne's passion for nursing began in her teenage years when she worked in a nursery and studied health and social care at college. A pivotal moment came during a work placement at Mosaic Clubhouse, a community centre for people with enduring mental health issues.  

She recalls:

T he placement changed my perception completely. Supporting patients in building independence and regaining a sense of stability inspired me to specialise in mental health. 

One of her most memorable achievements was supporting a patient who had been in long-term segregation with significant trauma. After a year of dedicated care planning and advocacy, the patient was successfully discharged into the community, where they continue to thrive.  

Another highlight has been presenting her achievements at the annual Nursing Conference.

Each year, there’s been a new milestone – completing my degree, starting my Master’s. It’s a testament to my growth and the support I’ve received.

Advice for Aspiring Nurses  

For anyone considering a career in nursing, Roharne has this advice:  

• Follow your dreams: Pursue your ambitions with determination.  

• Explore different areas: Mental health is a broad field with diverse opportunities – take the time to gain experience in various specialisms.  

• Value yourself and your patients: Compassion and self-care are essential in this demanding profession.