Media Release

Hospital’s Epilepsy Psychology Service for children recognised in Flourish Awards

The QEH’s Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology Service has been shortlisted as a finalist in the 2025 Norfolk County Council Flourish Awards under the Healthy Category.

In just three years since its launch, this pioneering service has transformed the lives of children living with epilepsy and non-epileptic seizures who are under the care of The QEH – delivering life-changing psychological support to children and families.

With passion, empathy and clinical excellence, the small but highly specialist team work alongside families, schools, and paediatricians to ensure no child faces their diagnosis alone. They offer tailored one-to-one therapy, group support, school liaison, and early mental health screening to address anxiety, build confidence, and help children flourish both emotionally and socially.

Dr Gail Clare, Principal Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Lead for Paediatric Clinical Psychology at The QEH said: “Living with epilepsy is about more than just managing seizures – it can impact every part of a young person’s life, from school to friendships and self-esteem.

Dr Lucy Wigg and Dr Gail Clare from The QEH Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology Service

“We created this service so that emotional wellbeing is prioritised from the moment of diagnosis. To be recognised in the Flourish Awards, by a panel led by young people and parents, is an enormous honour. It reflects the incredible work of our team and the strength of the amazing children and families we have the privilege to support.”

The Flourish Awards, now in their third year, celebrate the people and organisations making an outstanding difference to children and young people’s lives in Norfolk. Winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony on Wednesday 24 September at The Assembly House in Norwich, judged by a panel of young people and parents.

Pippa Street, Chief Nurse at The QEH, praised the team’s achievement:

“I am immensely proud of our Paediatric Epilepsy Psychology Team. Their dedication, compassion and innovation have created a vital service that is truly changing lives. Being shortlisted for a Flourish Award is a testament to their work, and to our commitment as a Trust to deliver holistic, patient-centred care for our youngest patients. This team doesn’t just support children they empower them to thrive.”

Every child referred to the service receives a mental health screening, and those diagnosed with non-epileptic seizures are offered bespoke psychological care plans. The team also delivers group sessions, practical resources, and vital communication with schools to ensure support extends beyond the clinic and into the child’s everyday world.

Their recognition at the Flourish Awards reflects the wider commitment of The QEH to championing emotional wellbeing and making services more accessible, inclusive, and empowering for children and families.

Ends.

To download the full press pack click here.

Notes to editors; For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216. For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.