Shining a light on the power of nurse-led care
We’re proud to share that Barts Health NHS Trust, in partnership with the North East London Integrated Care Board (ICB), has won a Nursing Times Award for our family liaison nurse initiative at Whipps Cross Hospital.
In response to a rise in under-5s frequently attending the paediatric emergency department at Whipps Cross, the frequent attender emergency department team introduced a family liaison nurse (FLN) role to provide more holistic support to families and reduce avoidable visits.
The FLN coordinates care across services, holds case discussions with clinicians and families, and offers tailored advice, referrals and health promotion.
This innovative approach, which has delivered a remarkable 66% reduction in repeat paediatric emergency department attendances by providing holistic family support and advocacy, was awarded in the Children's Service category in this year's ceremony.
The judges commended our team’s strong leadership, collaboration across agencies - including GPs, health visitors, school nurses, and community organisations - and its focus on empowering families through inclusive care.
Tricia May-Parrott, family liaison nurse at Whipps Cross Hospital said: “Winning this award feels absolutely incredible! We’re so honoured that our work has been recognised in this way - it really highlights the power of early intervention, collaborative working, and holistic family support, and shows what can be achieved when we all come together to make a difference for the families we support.
“This award is a true reflection of the dedication, compassion, and teamwork that has gone into our project. It shines a light on the amazing impact of nurse-led care, and we hope this recognition will help us secure further funding so we can continue making a positive difference in our community.”
Congratulations to our incredible nursing teams and partners for strengthening healthcare links in the community and improving outcomes for children and families across North East London.