Looking to the Future

Abstract

Developments in the organization of work generally, and in learning disability nursing specifically, suggest an increased impetus for the provision of career guidance. Such support, to enable nurses to develop fulfilling careers, may benefit both recruitment and retention. This article presents findings from a Department of Health funded study of nurses' careers. Two hundred and twenty-five learning disability nurses completed a questionnaire at qualification, which included questions about career guidance received during the pre-registration diploma course. Three aspects of guidance were investigated: information and advice received about applying for a first job, continuing education, and career pathways; discussions about career planning; and awareness of strategies to inform career planning. Findings indicate that a substantial proportion of learning disability diplomates did not receive guidance about many aspects of career planning and that considerable unmet demand existed. The need for career development programmes is discussed.