9 July 2024
We’re delighted to announce that two of our staff have received national recognition at the 2024 Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards for driving forward a project to stop the over medication of people (STOMP) with a learning disability, autism or both.
Sue Sargeant, advanced nurse practitioner and Claire Donnelly, primary care liaison nurse in the enhanced physical healthcare team, Teesside adult learning disability service were highly commended in the Learning Disability Nurse of the Year category.
Sue and Claire have been busy educating professionals about the effects of over-prescribing antipsychotic medication. They have provided training on how this can affect the working of the brain, the impact this might have on a person’s mood, thoughts and behaviour and how long-term use can also lead to weight gain, organ failure, eye problems, seizures, sedation and, in some cases, premature death. Support is also given to carry out robust, structured medication reviews and reduce dosages, if safe to do so.
Claire and I were delighted to have reached the final stage, but to receive being Highly Commended was fantastic,” said Sue, “STOMP is making a small difference to change the lives of people with a learning disability.
Primary care network pharmacists said:
“Before STOMP input, I was very reluctant to reduce or discontinue medication for those who were settled and stable. However, following Sue and Claire’s input and support, I now understand this to be a very valuable process to address health needs and inequalities for people with a learning disability. The support has been amazing, and the assurances of longer support will be invaluable.”
“You have been very supportive and flexible, which has made the process run really smoothly. Finding a day for the reviews was challenging, but you were extremely accommodating and arrived well before the reviews to give the opportunity to review each patient’s record and make a loose plan beforehand. Not only were you really flexible with availability, but you were also fully on board with coming out to care homes and assisted living facilities with me. You have made it clear that you are still available if I need you in the future for queries and your support is greatly appreciated.”
Hundreds of people across County Durham and Teesside have so far undergone medication reviews as part of STOMP, with many now seeing positive changes in their lives due to dosage reductions.
The judges said: “Claire and Sue’s passion, enthusiasm, and dedication are truly infectious.
“They are educating professionals about the devastating effects of overprescribing, and by working within the STOMP framework, they are driving change among GPs, prescribers, and educational settings.
“They are advocates for the rights of individuals with learning disabilities.”
Not only has the STOMP project been highly commended in the Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards, but it has also been shortlisted in the finals of the Nursing Times Awards that will be held in October.
Well done ladies, we’re very proud of all your hard work.
