A DEDICATED Darlington nurse has been shortlisted for a major national award.

Chris Shield works tirelessly to help autistic people in his role as clinical nurse manager.

Based at the Newbus Grange autism service in Neasham, Mr Shield has now been shortlisted in the learning disability nurse of the year category in the National Learning Disability Awards.

The award acknowledges the role specialist nurses have in promoting the emotional, psychological and social health of the people they support.

Mr Shield’s nomination recognises the support he gives staff and says: “He puts the people who use the service and their families first – he is willing to listen and a good person to talk to.”

The manager of Newbus Grange, Hazel Southern, said: “Chris is a very efficient and thorough nurse.

“He puts the service user at the forefront of their care and is a keen nurse leader for the nursing team.

“He is a great ambassador for Newbus Grange and thoroughly deserves this recognition.”

In his role, Mr Shields has worked to roll out a model of care which supports those in his service to live their lives in the way they choose.

He attended a judging panel on Thursday, March 26 and will find out if he’s won the award when winners are announced at a gala dinner on Friday, May 15.

Rebecca Hill, head of strategic partnerships and special projects lead at the Danshell Group, which operates Newbus Grange has also been shortlisted after being nominated for the Breaking Down Barriers award.