Learning disability nurse wins national award for life changing work
A learning disability nurse from Newcastle Sexual Health Service has won a national award for her outstanding commitment to compassionate and inclusive care.
Amanda Holmes, Learning Disability Sexual Health Nurse Specialist, has been named winner of the National Dignity in Care Award at the Great British Care Awards.
The awards bring together finalists from across the country to celebrate excellence throughout the care sector.
The Dignity in Care Award honours an individual who excels in maximising client independence and choice while upholding privacy and dignity at all times. Winners are chosen by an independent panel of judges following an interview process.
Judges praised Amanda for the exceptional way she supports people with learning disabilities and their families, describing her as a brilliant nurse, advocate and role model who treats everyone with dignity and respect.
The judging panel highlighted how Amanda helps people feel safe when discussing sexual health, using clear and kind explanations to support understanding and informed choice. Her work was described as life‑changing, helping people feel listened to, confident and respected while ensuring barriers to care are removed.
Speaking about the award, Amanda said:
“It was incredibly humbling to have been nominated but to win was an amazing and truly emotional experience. I am extremely grateful. Supporting people with learning disabilities to feel safe and respected when talking about their sexual health is something I care deeply about. I’m very lucky to work with such supportive colleagues, fabulous self-advocates and community partners to make a difference to our patients and their partners every day.”
Colleague Kate Lacey, Learning Disability Sexual Health Nurse, nominated Amanda for the award and said:
“Amanda goes above and beyond every single day. She treats everyone with kindness, patience and respect. She works incredibly hard to provide a person-centred, caring and dignified approach to support people with learning disabilities and their sexual health needs. The impact of her work on people’s confidence, understanding and wellbeing is incredible, and this award is so well‑deserved.”
One of Amanda’s patients added:
“Amanda is a fantastic nurse to me. She is the most caring person who makes us feel comfortable. She has supported me since being homeless and through scary times. Despite working on sexual health, she always has time to talk to me and my partner to make sure we are okay.”
Newcastle Sexual Health Service became part of South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust (STSFT) on 1 March 2026. The Trust also delivers free, confidential and accessible sexual health services across Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland.
Nicola Kirkley, Directorate Manager for Community Services at STSFT, said:
“Amanda’s work is truly outstanding. She ensures people with learning disabilities receive the dignity, respect and support they deserve, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognised nationally.”
This work supports STSFT’s wider commitment to reducing health inequalities and improving access to care for local communities.
For more information about Newcastle Sexual Health Service, visit www.
