Our Paediatric Epilepsy Service has been recognised thanks to the commitment and leadership of our Epilepsy Specialist Nurse, Lin Mar.

The latest results in the National Clinical Audit for Epilepsies in Children and Young People show that 98% of our newly diagnosed paediatric epilepsy patients are being seen by a Paediatric Epilepsy Specialist Nurse within the first 12 months of diagnosis. This compares to around 88% nationally in the same period.

This impressive performance is being credited to the work Lin has carried out over the past year, going above and beyond to support our patients.

General Manager for Children and Young People's Services, Rachel Brown, said: “Just 12 months ago the Epilepsy Service had one band 6 nurse and Lin was a band 5 epilepsy nurse. Nationally most epilepsy specialist nurses are band 7s or 8s.

“Lin stepped into a developmental Band 6 role when the post became vacant and has been the only colleague supporting the service over the last year, and at the same time has also completed further training.

“She has not only maintained performance but driven it to this exceptional level. She has also re-established epilepsy transition clinics, supporting young people as they move from paediatric to adult services. These clinics had not been running for two years and have now been successfully reinstated, alongside Lin’s wider clinical workload. I honestly don't quite know how she manages to do it all.

“The service is now in a stronger position. What's wonderful is we've got to the point where we have another developmental epilepsy nurse post and Lin will be mentoring and supporting them too.”

Matron, Lola Duncan, said: "Having worked with Lin for more than 20 years, I can honestly say she has always been a ray of light. She's kind, approachable, and endlessly supportive to everyone she meets. I am unbelievably proud of the way she has grown over the past few years. This success comes from her genuine commitment to putting people first, whether that's her patients or her colleagues. She makes a real difference every single day, and we are incredibly lucky to have her.

Consultant Paediatrician, Matthew Taylor, said: "Lin’s diligence during a period of short staffing has ensured standards have been maintained, as identified by this positive outlier notification from the recent national audit. This means children with a new diagnosis of epilepsy have received essential information and a point of contact.  This availability is used frequently by families between clinic appointments for queries and updates on their medication and seizures. She’s achieved this with a really positive attitude."