Edel Parsons

Sussex learning from lives and deaths (LeDeR) programme lead

On my first day as a support worker, I knew I had found my life’s choice in what I still feel lucky to call work. Fortunate to train as an RNLD I have always believed in our flexibility, creativity and ability to be the challenger to inequity whilst promoting voices that may go unheard. I have worked across many settings including the NHS, local authority and third sector as a community nurse, health facilitator and trainer. Having moved into safeguarding in a CCG, I now lead the learning from lives and deaths (LeDeR) programme within the ever changing landscape of the NHS. My experience enables me to work across systems and I am truly excited by the societal view that the whole NHS must improve access and care to reduce health inequalities including those with learning disabilities and autistic people. I am a qualified best interest assessor for DoLS and trained in quality improvement. I remain involved in arts organisations for people with learning disabilities and autism in my community. It is the people along the way who have inspired me and continue to do so.