“Hearing about the difference my mum made as a nurse inspired me to follow the same path and build a career where I can truly support people through challenging times”

To mark International Nurses Day, we are shining a light on the dedication, compassion and skill of our nursing workforce across Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Celebrated each year on 12 May, International Nurses Day recognises the vital role nurses play in delivering high-quality care and supporting patients through some of the most challenging moments in their lives. 

As part of this, we spoke to Alex Birkinshaw, a Registered Mental Health Nurse working on an acute inpatient ward at the Carsington Unit in Derby, about his journey into nursing, what motivates him, and the difference his role makes to patients every day.

What inspired you to become a nurse?
I’ve always wanted a career where I could make a positive difference in people’s lives. I was drawn to mental health nursing because it allows you to build therapeutic relationships and support people in regaining stability and confidence in themselves. I’ve also had an interest in psychology throughout my life.

Also, my mum was a nurse. Hearing about the difference my mum made as a nurse inspired me to follow the same path and build a career where I can truly support people through challenging times.

How long have you worked in nursing, and where did your career begin?
I qualified in mental health nursing around eight months ago. I have started working in acute inpatient services. I worked in the same field during my final placement as a student and really enjoyed my time in the role and feel proud to be able to continue this after qualifying.

What has been the most rewarding part of your nursing journey so far?
There are many rewarding parts of the job, but I really enjoy helping patients make progress in their recovery. Seeing them be able to regain confidence and move forward with their life.

Is there a moment in your career that you are particularly proud of?
I’m proud of the times when I’ve been able to help de-escalate difficult situations and support patients through periods of crisis in a calm and compassionate way.

Can you describe your current role and what a typical day looks like?
I currently work on an acute inpatient ward for males. A typical day involves doing medication rounds, supporting patients with care and safety plans, completing risk assessments, engaging patients therapeutically, and working closely with the MDT. Every day is different, which makes the role both challenging and rewarding as I feel I am constantly learning.

What difference do you feel your role makes to patients or colleagues?
I believe my role helps provide patients with stability, support, and a feeling of safety during difficult periods in their lives. I also try to contribute positively to the team by remaining approachable and supportive.

What do you enjoy most about working in your team or service?
What I enjoy most is the teamwork. It’s rewarding working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about patient wellbeing and support each other during challenging shifts.

How does your role support patient care or the wider community?
We support our patients by proving social care support and community nursing support. We do our best to provide the safest and best possible discharge for our patients.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in nursing?
I would say always be open to new learning opportunities and learning from your peers will help you excel in the profession.

What challenges do nurses face in your role, and how do you manage them?
Challenges can be due to patients often experiencing significant distress or crisis. Things that can help are good teamwork, communication, and maintaining professionalism.

What helps you stay motivated during busy or difficult periods?
Seeing positive outcomes for patients and knowing that the work we do genuinely helps keeps me motivated. Support from colleagues and remembering the importance of the role also helps during difficult periods.

How do colleagues and teams support each other where you work?
We support each other through teamwork, regular communication, sharing responsibilities, and checking in on one another during shifts.

What does International Nurses Day mean to you?
It helps recognise dedication, resilience, and compassion that nurses show every day. It’s also a chance to reflect on the positive impact nurses have day to day on people lives.

What would you like people to better understand about the nursing profession?
Nursing involves far more than clinical tasks. It requires communication, critical thinking, teamwork, compassion and a wide range of social care understanding.

How does it feel to have nursing recognised and celebrated?
It feels good and encouraging to have the work nurses do recognise. Nursing can be challenging, so it’s important for people to have acknowledgment of their hard work and know it does not go unnoticed.

What makes you proud to be a nurse at this Trust?
I’m proud to work alongside dedicated colleagues who are committed to providing high-quality care and supporting patients through difficult periods in their lives. Also Being part of a trust who has clear guidelines around inclusivity and making everyone feel welcome

What excites you about the future of nursing?
Seeing how mental health services are continuing to grow and improve, along with the increasing awareness and understanding around mental health and wellbeing. I like that stigma in society around mental health is gradually being reduced.

What would success look like for you over the next few years?
Success for me would mean continuing to grow professionally, developing my skills further, and continuing to make a positive impact on patients and colleagues. Also, once I have gained more experience and passed my preceptorship would like to mentor student nurses.