A NURSE'S innovative approach to helping people with learning difficulties has won her a prestigious award.

Isabel Robinson, of Langho, has developed specialist psychotherapy treatment for people with mental health problems at Bridge House, in King Street, Blackburn.

She is now one of 13 finalists in the Nursing Standard Nurse of 2003 awards after winning her category and will collect the award at a ceremony in London in November.

Isabel, 45, said: "I offer therapy for specific referrals. I was concerned about the scarcity of 'talking therapies' for clients who have experienced trauma.

"My clinical practice has enabled me to promote the service with a wide range of resources to aid communication." In her consulting room, Isabel encourages clients to express themselves by means other than speech, such as painting.

Her submission for the Learning Disability Nursing Award was short-listed from a record number of entries.

Isabel, who started working as a mental health nurse in 1976 at Brockhall Hospital, was chosen for the final after a presentation to a distinguished panel of judges on the results her scheme has achieved. Since it started in 2001, it has gathered pace and she now sees around 40 patients a month.

The winner will be announced November 4.