Sarah Haines, Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Sarah Haines
Head of Patient Experience and Engagement
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

I qualified as a Learning Disability Nurse in 1995,I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. With extensive experience in specialist services across community and inpatient settings, they have developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and needs of this population. As the Learning Disability Lead Nurse for one of the UK’s largest acute healthcare trusts, I have led innovative initiatives to enhance patient care. A proud highlight of their career is being part of the award-winning team recognized with last year’s Learning Disability Award. This accolade celebrated their groundbreaking work in utilizing virtual reality for desensitization, helping individuals with learning disabilities feel more comfortable and safe in hospitals and healthcare environments. I remain passionate about advancing inclusion and accessibility in healthcare, driven by a commitment to empowering individuals and improving outcomes.