Drama workshops are helping nursing students to find their voice

Performance specialist Alex Mermikide's resources develop confidence and communication skills

As Alex Mermikides supported her brother through cancer treatment, she became aware of the emotional effect nursing staff could have on their patients.

‘Saying just the right words to someone makes them feel better,’ says Dr Mermikides, a former lecturer in drama at Kingston University and now doctoral programme leader at Guildhall School of Music and Drama. ‘As a nurse, even coming into the room in a particular way can have an impact.’

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