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Hannah Gardner
Name:
Hannah Gardner
Job Title:
Consultant Admiral Nurse for Children and Young People
Place of work / study:
Dementia UK and Honorary Senior Associate at Bangor University
Area of Research:
My research focuses on peer support and increasing awareness of the diverse and vital support needs of children and young people living in families affected by dementia- particularly the needs of children and young people with a parental young-onset dementia.
How is your work funded:
Health and Care Research Wales
Tell us a little about yourself:
As the Consultant Admiral Nurse for Children and Young People at Dementia UK, I am the only role nationally and internally dedicated solely to supporting children and young people under 18 living in families affected by dementia. I provide clinical support to enhance comprehension and understanding of dementia, offer emotional support, and serve as a trusted adult to ensure children and young people have access to vital tailored support. I also support the Admiral Nurse Academy to strengthen clinical practice across the UK, helping Admiral Nurses develop their skills in working with families affected by dementia.
I act as an ambassador for children to ensure their voices are heard and their unique challenges are recognised across health, education, research, policy, and social care. My mother had onset Alzheimer’s disease, which fuels my passion to support children and young people.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I love running and constantly setting new challenges, but my knees are not too keen.
Why did you choose to work in dementia:
Lived experience and witnessed firsthand the impact of dementia on families as a general registered nurse across community and hospital settings.
What single piece of of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
Nurses bring valuable skills to research. Collaborating with universities helps expand their knowledge and opens opportunities to contribute as co-applicants on research projects—ensuring nursing insight shapes evidence-based care
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
“I’d love to read more, but I’m currently completing an MSc in Professional Development, so much of my time is spent reading about Advanced Nursing Practice. That said, I really enjoy autobiographies—especially reading about people’s journeys.
Favourite film of all time?
Forrest Gump- could watch it all day
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Running favourite way to unwind- member of local running group- away from screen and chores
What’s the best decision you ever made?
Not being afraid to step outside of your comfort zone
What’s the best vacation spot?
love Italy- Rome is my favourite city
Do you collect anything?
No
Hannah Hussain
