We thank the College members nominating individuals for this award. Below are the winners' citations as provided by the nominators.
Dr Clarissa Chase
Dr Clarissa Chase’s extraordinary work in revolutionising regional education and training in Paediatric Emergency Medicine shows her rare blend of true creativity, and perseverance. Her influence does not only sit with those who receive training, but also to the countless children and young people who are treated by those who have worked with Clarissa.
From designing and hosting a two day cross-profession UK PEM conference, to delivering bespoke training programmes across Wessex, Clarissa’s work has been far reaching and touching. Dr Chase is a member of the founding faculty for the regional paediatric sedation course. Her vision that PEM should not only treat emergencies but also prevent them has been one that she has held since her days as a trainee and she now works through the Healthier Together programme.
Dr Chase’s work acknowledges the emotional burden placed upon individuals working in PEM and she has been central to designing a new tool for debrief which is now practiced regionally.
Professor Colin Morgan and Ms Katie Barnes
Professor Colin Morgan and Advanced Paediatric Nurse Practitioner Katie Barnes have provided outstanding leadership as the co-chairs of the ACP Curriculum Working Group. They have undertaken a great deal of work to bring the ACP curricular framework to fruition.
The finalised work will advance the connection of training between a multi-professional paediatric workforce. The work of Colin and Katie as Co-Chairs has shown relentless focus, overcoming significant challenges and providing greater insight of the Advanced Practitioner agenda. The recognition of the changing AP workforce highlighted the geographical and professional diversity of the group and the challenges faced in the wider environment. Through their joint leadership the working group was formed, creating a space and opportunity for visionary thinking, and allowing others to share their professional expertise.
While the length of the project created a number of obstacles, the dogged persistence and drive of both Katie and Colin has culminated in a document that has obtained recognition by NHS England as a paediatric AP credential.