5.0 out of 5 stars
Essential – a must read
This is a powerful, heartfelt account that shines a much-needed light on the realities of training and working as a mental health nurse in England. Through honest storytelling and vivid detail, the author captures not only the clinical challenges but also the emotional resilience, compassion, and humanity required in the profession.
At a time when conversations around mental health have never been more important, this book offers invaluable insight into the people behind the uniforms — the trainees learning their craft while navigating pressure, responsibility, and deeply human moments. It’s both eye-opening and deeply moving.
Whether you work in healthcare, are considering a career in nursing, or simply want to better understand the mental health system, this book is an inspiring and worthwhile read. It leaves you with a renewed respect for mental health professionals and the vital work they do every day.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fab book
Really enjoyed reading this book. As a mental health nurse this book was relatable to my experiences in clinical practice and the working relationships/friendships developed along the way.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Beautiful and funny
Beautiful and funny story of two friends who were nurses training and practicing since 1970s and 1980s and in the wake of the Mental Health Act 1983 x true and genuine with great sense of humour and compassion for others xxx love the book and the way it’s written xxx
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent read
I absolutely loved this book. These true stories should never be forgotten. They are the history of mental heath nursing, written with so much passion and an eagerness to change practice. I am in a very privileged position to know one of the authors who has guided me through my own practice. She is most definitely loved and still very much admired by her fellow colleagues. Congratulations to you both x
5.0 out of 5 stars
A good read!
An excellent book which describes the changes in mental health provision from hospitalisation to inclusion into the community. It describes how practitioners coped in a practical and often humorous manner. Enjoyed the read.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful
Beautifully written with great humour that keeps memories alive and those currently working in it smiling at the very similar experiences we face day to day.
The story is great in showing the differences in nursing and the very need for things to continue to change in the right direction with the ever increasing demand!
No matter what area of mental health nursing you go into the experiences prove similar. Great reading about two friends that met through their career and still continue to have a very strong friendship despite the distance and the years passed by!






