Helen Spencer-Hicks

Qualifications

Registered Mental Health Nurse, PGDip Forensic Mental Health, BSc (Hons) Criminology

Specialisms

• Prison Nursing,
• Risk Management,
• Suicide & Self Harm,
• ADHD

Introduction

I qualified as a mental health nurse in 1992. During my career I have gained extensive clinical experience, at a senior level working within the NHS, in a variety of mental health settings.

For a large part of my career, I have practised within the field of Offender Care services. I have been involved in the development of prison mental health services and I have a proven record of delivering safe, effective and responsive patient care. Undertaking a BSc in Criminology and Post Graduate studies in Forensic Mental Health has widened my understanding of the prison setting.

I have worked in a variety of category prisons, including high security services. My current role as a senior manager includes a clinical component where I practise as an advanced nurse practitioner. This work involves carrying caseloads of high-risk complex needs individuals managed with multi agency involvement, including specialist teams.

I have a sound working knowledge of the Mental Health Act particularly around forensic sections. I also have significant experience in safeguarding and risk management. I am a good communicator and listener and possess the ability to critique, and analyse all arguments and viewpoints presented to formulate a clear plan and opinion with proposed actions and recommendations.

I am a qualified independent and supplementary prescriber and in my current role, I have developed a nurse led ADHD pathway, which accounts for a large amount of my clinical work. I assess, diagnose and both initiate and titrate medication regimes whilst formulating risk management plans.

In addition to my prison role, I currently work part time as a Clinical Operations Manager for a Covid vaccination centre.

I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.