22 October 2021

James Smith is the new Assistant Director of Nursing for CNWL’s Diggory Division.

James, who was Lead Nurse in CNWL’s Addictions Service, replaces Mercy Wasike, who is on secondment.

James will have particular responsibility for nursing, quality and safety across Milton Keynes Community Services, and Sexual Health and Health & Justice services.

He is one of two Assistant Directors of Nursing in the Division; Davina Culley is the other.

Originally from Newark, James, 36, graduated as a nurse from Nottingham University in 2008 after developing an interest in mental health from his first degree in clinical psychology. After starting his nursing career in Lincolnshire, he joined CNWL in 2011 as a Band 5 nurse specialising in working in Addictions across various settings.

“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues to develop and advance nursing practice within the Trust. I’m a staunch advocate for nurses who can provide a range of highly skilled interventions to address both physical and mental health needs.

“We’ve learned from the Covid pandemic that we have to be able to offer much more to our patients to prevent ill health and the need for hospital admission. I’m keen to bring my experience of addictions to strengthen our ability to work across partnerships, with families and carers and the third sector to help us integrate treatment and recovery.

“This is much better for patients but also inspiring for nurse development. I’ve been in CNWL for 10 years now and made the most of the opportunities afforded to me to develop my skills, qualify in non-medical prescribing and become a nurse leader. I want my journey to become the norm for all aspiring nurses.”

James lives in North London with his husband (who is from Milan); both keen travellers when circumstances permit!

Diggory Division covers Milton Keynes, Heath & Justice Services, Sexual Health and Addictions. The name ‘Diggory’ comes from the first NHS patient in 1948.