18 JCN 2016, Vol 30, No 6

support groups are increasingly joining forces to offer a more holistic package of care.

Since 2011, EOS has been measuring the positive outcomes of joint-working through signposting, events, resources, research and championing. These activities have powerful goals, including: Overcoming barriers to health

literacy and compliance Informing and empowering Breaking isolation.

Overcoming barriers to health literacy and complianceOne of the most common situations the charity encounters is families feeling overwhelmed and unsure about their treatment plan, even after receiving full guidance and quality advice by the NHS.

Some families may be dealing with other complex needs and chaotic lives, while others may be under too much stress to self-manage. EOS can help them fully understand good practice and take time to listen to their concerns. As a neutral advocate, a family support worker can also strengthen the relationship between the family and their healthcare professional during a clinic appointment, improving communication, trust and ultimately adherence to treatment. Another way to remind families of good practice is to run events where healthcare professionals are invited to speak and answer questions.

The nurse’s presentation was very clear and a wake-up call for us; my teenage son and I went home feeling more confident about his treatment, what to avoid and what to do when things get bad.

Mother from Inverness after an event

The team of Eczema Outreach Scotland (EOS) has been working with families dealing

with the day-to-day struggle of childhood eczema for over five years. Magali Redding, a West Lothian mother of three and voluntary sector professional, set up the group when her daughter asked tearfully: ‘why am I the only scratchy girl in the world?’ In between their precious clinic appointments, the family had been feeling increasingly frustrated and isolated in their battle with the impact of eczema on life.

Initially, EOS offered a listening ear to parents and an opportunity to meet other families dealing with similar issues at family events. However, demand has snowballed and the charity now helps over 630 families with the practical and emotional aspects of the condition.

From working intensively with individuals and building relationships with healthcare professionals, the charity has developed a deep understanding of the wide-ranging issues facing children with eczema, their siblings and carers.

IMPACT OF CHILDHOOD ECZEMA

Although eczema has a high prevalence in the UK (up to 20% of children; Flohr and Mann, 2014) and is on the increase, in the author’s experience it is often dismissed as a minor issue by the general public, with its impact being vastly misunderstood.

Helping families struggling to manage eczema

Viewpoints

Magali Redding, chief executive officer, Eczema Outreach Scotland (EOS)

Healthcare professionals dealing with eczema are, however, well aware that the reality for families living with this chronic skin condition is shaped by sleepless nights, infections, days off school and work for parents, time-consuming treatments, behaviour concerns and endless frustration trying to work out the triggers of flares.

At primary and secondary level, nurses play a crucial role in educating families and demonstrating topical therapies. When carried out over a period of time, this can improve compliance and decrease the severity of the condition significantly (Cork et al, 2003). However, clinicians may not have the time or remit to deal with other aspects of life affected by the condition, which is why voluntary organisations such as EOS exist, e.g: Twenty percent of children with

eczema are bullied at school (National Eczema Society) and one in two has low self-esteem (Leung et al, 2004)

In families with skin disease, there is a clear sense of desperation, frustration and, in many cases, isolation (All Party Parliamentary Group on Skin [APPGS], 2013)

Eczema has been proven to cause severe disruption to sleep, which is correlated with high anxiety, leading to elevated risks of depression (Moore et al, 2006).

The practical aspects of dealing with eczema, such as lack of care during school hours, the hidden financial burden (direct and indirect), and social isolation are also areas where external groups can step in.

PATIENT GROUP SUPPORT

While research into eczema continues, healthcare professionals and patient

Editorial - eczema.indd 2 08/12/2016 14:49

©2016

Wou

nd C

are Peo

ple Lt

d

Nourish and protect sensitive baby skinSpecially formulated for babies, with natural oatmeal, the new AVEENO® Baby range helps nourish and protect skin from the fi rst use, to keep it looking and feeling healthy as it develops.

UK/AV/16-7646a

Specially formulated for babies, with natural oatmeal, the new AVEENO® Baby range helps nourish

®

Naturally Beautiful Babies

new

AVE_Baby_JournalofCommunityNursing_A4_V1.indd 1 26/09/2016 13:30

©2016

Wou

nd C

are Peo

ple Lt

d

20 JCN 2016, Vol 30, No 6

VIEWPOINTS

Informing and empoweringLawton et al (2005) stated that parents want good quality, relevant information on atopic eczema and the problems that are likely to occur during the illness. As well as providing a range of specialist resources and information, a support group can complement NHS care by meeting practical needs, such as: setting up a healthcare plan between the child with eczema and their school (a girl supported by EOS increased her school attendance by 70% in three months); offering advice on how to access disability schemes; encouraging children and their families to take part in fun self-management challenges; and raising awareness about eczema to fight stigma.

My daughter received an amazing pack with many valuable things that she uses regularly like a cool pack, stress ball and some informative booklets which we’ve learnt a lot from. We gained lots of useful tips from staff too and making action plans was a helpful way to improve the situation at school and at home too.

Father of girl with severe eczema, Livingston

Breaking isolationFamilies often feel alone with dealing with the condition. A charity or support group can offer a unique chance to connect with peers in

relaxed surroundings. For example, EOS brings families together at four major events each year and also has a vibrant Facebook group where parents tell their stories, share tips and support each other.

Sharing experiences and meeting others has helped us cope a lot better with eczema, as a family we’ve made new friends who understand and are there for us no matter what.

Mother of two boys with eczema, Glasgow

In an EOS survey in March 2016, over 90% of families receiving EOS support reported feeling: More confident about what to do

or where to ask for help Better informed about ways to

cope with eczema and access other services

More supported and listened to Better connected with people

who understand More able to talk with others

about life with eczema.

Children stated that they understand eczema and the treatments better (70%); use new ways to cope with eczema (55%); feel less alone, talk about it more easily, feel better about themselves (50%); and tried new activities and met new friends (40%). CROSS-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS

In the past three years, NHS strategies and reports have been highlighting the need for strengthening partnerships between the NHS and the voluntary sector to deliver more coordinated models of care. For example:

There are already some emergent and innovative partnerships developing, but much more can be done. We need discussions across sectors about new, better coordinated models of care through enabling and promoting greater collaboration.

Addicott, 2013

CONCLUSION

For families struggling with the impact of eczema on life, an approach that incorporates medical, practical

and emotional support is crucial, as experienced first-hand by the founder of EOS and her family. While voluntary organisations continue to share best practice and complement the work of clinicians across the country, there are many ways nurses and other healthcare professionals can help strengthen partnerships: signposting patients to support groups; volunteering on charities’ boards; speaking at events; co-producing new resources; or simply championing the cause within their networks and communities.

REFERENCES

Addicott R (2013) Working together to deliver the Mandate. Strengthening partnerships between the NHS and the voluntary sector. King’s Fund, London. Available online: www.kingsfund.org.uk/sites/files/kf/field/field_publication_file/working-together-to-deliver-the-mandate-jul13.pdf

All Party Parliamentary Group on Skin (2013) The Psychological and Social Impact of Skin Diseases on People’s Lives. APPGS, London

Cork MJ, Britton J, Butler L, et al (2003)Comparison of parent knowledge, therapy utilization and severity of atopic eczema before and after explanation and demonstration of topical therapies by a specialist dermatology nurse. Br J Dermatol 149(3): 582–9

Flohr C, Mann J (2014) New insights into the epidemiology of childhood atopic dermatitis. Allergy 69(1): 3–16

Lawton S, Roberts A, Gibb C (2005) Supporting the parents of children with atopic eczema. Br J Nurs 14(13): 693–6

Leung DY, Boguniewicz M, Howell MD, et al (2004) New insights into atopic dermatitis. J Clin Invest 113: 651–7

Moore K, David TJ, Murray CS, Child F, Arkwright PD (2006) Effect of childhood eczema and asthma on parental sleep and well-being: a prospective comparative study. Br J Dermatol 154(3): 514–8

For more information about Eczema Outreach Scotland, visit: www.eczemaoutreach scotland.org.ukcall: 01506 840 395Free line for families: 0800 622 6018email: info@eczemaoutreachscotland.org.uk.

JCN

Editorial - eczema.indd 4 08/12/2016 14:50

©2016

Wou

nd C

are Peo

ple Lt

d

SPECIAL OFFERThe QNI’s 2017 Wall Calendar and Royal Patron’s Booklet

£9.99

To buy your copies, go to www.qni.org.ukor send a cheque to The QNI, 1A Henrietta Place, London W1G 0LZ

together only

The calendar features photographs from Victorian times through

to the early years of the NHS.

The limited edition booklet commemorates the historic

connection between the Royal Family and the QNI and is a 40

page collection of never published before photographs from

our archives.

plus £1 p&p

QNI Calendar and booklet Ad 2016 2.indd 1 08/12/2016 12:21:14

©2016

Wou

nd C

are Peo

ple Lt

d

,

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS, PRESENTED BY CLINICAL SPECIALISTS,COVER KEY TOPICS RELEVANT TODAY-TO-DAY PRACTICE

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

• District nurses • Community nurses • Practice nurses • Nursing home and school nurses • Health visitors • Primary care trusts • Healthcare assistants

To register for the JCN event of your choice andsee the full day’s programme, go to:

www.jcn.co.uk and follow the link from the home page, or email: samantha@jcn.co.uk

JOIN US IN PROVIDING FREE EDUCATION TO NURSES

WORKING IN PRIMARY CARE THROUGHOUT THE UK

ATTENDANCE CONTRIBUTES TO REVALIDATION

● INSPIRE ● EDUCATE ● CHANGE PRACTICE

EXHIBITION & STUDY DAYS 2017

2017 EVENTS CALENDAR

I’ve been coming for many years to the JCN study days and year-on-year they keep getting better. The content is very relevant to my practice and best of all the event is free. The education is at just the right level for my job — and I love learning about all the new products in the exhibition, as it helps me to keep up to date. The JCN study days are well worth a visit.

Jenny Jamal, community staff nurse

Good to attend for revalidation purposes and the wound care information all being available in one day was really helpful — a real one-stop shop!

Naomi King, Newcastle

I have been attending the JCN study days since 2009, from my nurse training days to now when I am doing advanced practitioner training. I have worked for six years in the community. I love the sessions, the exhibition and the website; they are all helpful. I recommend the study days to all my colleagues; there are 19 of us visiting in May.

Sue Hawksley, community nurse, South Warwickshire

event venue date

Cardiff Mercure Cardiff Holland Hotel Wednesday 1 February

Blackpool Hilton Hotel Wednesday 15 March

Stoke-on-Trent Stoke City Football Club Wednesday 26 April

Leicester Leicester Racecourse Thursday 11 May

Exeter Exeter Racecourse Wednesday 24 May

Bristol Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel Tuesday 6 June

Southampton Grand Harbour Hotel Wednesday 5 July

Falkirk Macdonald Inchrya Hotel Wednesday 6 September

Maidstone Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel Wednesday 27 September

Esher Sandown Park Racecourse Wednesday 11 October

Sheffi eld Hilton Doubletree Wednesday 1 November

Durham Ramside Hall Hotel Wednesday 22 November

Norwich Holiday Inn Wednesday 6 December

WHAT OUR 2016DELEGATES THINK

Learn from leading clinicians Sessions cover theory and practical skills for

community practice Exhibition with latest products, demonstrations

and samples Attendance contributes towards revalidation

Book now to reserve your place

www.jcn.co.uk/events/

Free to attend

Roadshows DPS 17b.indd 2-3 11/11/16 7:50 AM

©2016

Wou

nd C

are Peo

ple Lt

d

,

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS, PRESENTED BY CLINICAL SPECIALISTS,COVER KEY TOPICS RELEVANT TODAY-TO-DAY PRACTICE

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

• District nurses • Community nurses • Practice nurses • Nursing home and school nurses • Health visitors • Primary care trusts • Healthcare assistants

To register for the JCN event of your choice andsee the full day’s programme, go to:

www.jcn.co.uk and follow the link from the home page, or email: samantha@jcn.co.uk

JOIN US IN PROVIDING FREE EDUCATION TO NURSES

WORKING IN PRIMARY CARE THROUGHOUT THE UK

ATTENDANCE CONTRIBUTES TO REVALIDATION

● INSPIRE ● EDUCATE ● CHANGE PRACTICE

EXHIBITION & STUDY DAYS 2017

2017 EVENTS CALENDAR

I’ve been coming for many years to the JCN study days and year-on-year they keep getting better. The content is very relevant to my practice and best of all the event is free. The education is at just the right level for my job — and I love learning about all the new products in the exhibition, as it helps me to keep up to date. The JCN study days are well worth a visit.

Jenny Jamal, community staff nurse

Good to attend for revalidation purposes and the wound care information all being available in one day was really helpful — a real one-stop shop!

Naomi King, Newcastle

I have been attending the JCN study days since 2009, from my nurse training days to now when I am doing advanced practitioner training. I have worked for six years in the community. I love the sessions, the exhibition and the website; they are all helpful. I recommend the study days to all my colleagues; there are 19 of us visiting in May.

Sue Hawksley, community nurse, South Warwickshire

event venue date

Cardiff Mercure Cardiff Holland Hotel Wednesday 1 February

Blackpool Hilton Hotel Wednesday 15 March

Stoke-on-Trent Stoke City Football Club Wednesday 26 April

Leicester Leicester Racecourse Thursday 11 May

Exeter Exeter Racecourse Wednesday 24 May

Bristol Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel Tuesday 6 June

Southampton Grand Harbour Hotel Wednesday 5 July

Falkirk Macdonald Inchrya Hotel Wednesday 6 September

Maidstone Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel Wednesday 27 September

Esher Sandown Park Racecourse Wednesday 11 October

Sheffi eld Hilton Doubletree Wednesday 1 November

Durham Ramside Hall Hotel Wednesday 22 November

Norwich Holiday Inn Wednesday 6 December

WHAT OUR 2016DELEGATES THINK

Learn from leading clinicians Sessions cover theory and practical skills for

community practice Exhibition with latest products, demonstrations

and samples Attendance contributes towards revalidation

Book now to reserve your place

www.jcn.co.uk/events/

Free to attend

Roadshows DPS 17b.indd 2-3 11/11/16 7:50 AM

©2016

Wou

nd C

are Peo

ple Lt

d