Mark Jukes offers a historical perspective on the changes the specialty has undergone since the early 1970s

This article is intentionally reflective, partly autobiographical, and focuses on the challenges that existed for the author as a nursing student trained in the 1970s, and after qualifying as a learning disability nurse. The difficulties of getting changes accepted still exists today. The important messages concern promoting and demonstrating positive values, attitudes and skills when working with clients, other health care professionals and services at all levels.