7 June 2024

Audrey Mitchell, affectionately known as #ZimLadyAfrique, is transitioning from her role as the Discharge Lead of the Harrow Home Treatment Team at CNWL.

After nearly two decades of dedication and service, she is embarking on a new chapter as a Clinical Worker supporting with the diagnosis of Autism.

Audrey’s journey at CNWL began in 2000 when she arrived from Zimbabwe and pursued her nursing career. Reflecting on her time, she says, "Working at CNWL has allowed me the opportunity to progress with great ease. Throughout my nursing career, I have built my skillset along with maintaining positive networks to achieve effective outcomes."

Returning to Harrow in 2005 as a Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN), Audrey quickly made her mark. A year later, she played a key role in setting up the Harrow Home Treatment Team, transforming mental health care by providing intensive support to patients in their homes. As Discharge Lead, beginning in 2020,  she championed smooth transitions for patients leaving inpatient care, ensuring they received the necessary support in the community.

Beyond her clinical duties, Audrey was instrumental in advocacy through Harrow Voices Together, which she co-founded. This initiative amplified the voices of mental health patients and their families, aligning services more closely with their needs.

Audrey’s new role with the Adult Autism Diagnostic Service aligns with her  passion for addressing the needs of neurodiverse people . "Bridging the gap of our neurodiverse sector mental health needs remains a special interest of mine. Hence, I found it necessary to join the newly launched Adult Autism Diagnostic service as a Nurse Consultant," she explains.

Colleagues describe Audrey as a beacon of positivity and energy. Gail Burrell, Borough Director of Harrow, told us that “Audrey emulates the Trust values when it comes to patient care; she will always go the extra mile. She is a champion for people with learning disabilities and ASD – always advocating  the best care for these patients. She is inclusive of everyone and helped set up Voices Together staff group in Harrow. We will really miss her but know wherever she goes passion and care will follow.”

Her open and honest approach fostered a supportive work environment, where everyone felt valued. "I believe that 'being myself' brings out the best in me and enables me to realize what I can and can’t do. This allows me to be the person that staff see me as," Audrey shares

As she moves on, Audrey leaves behind a legacy of commitment and transformation.

Reflecting on her departure, Audrey says, "I can only say thank you to all Harrow Mental Health Teams for the greatest camaraderie experience. I will definitely keep in touch." Her gratitude and warmth will be remembered as she continues to inspire and impact in her new role.