Better care for children in Lambeth and Southwark

An Evelina London nurse with a patient

From 1 April 2014 Evelina London Children’s Hospital is joining together with community health services for children in Lambeth and Southwark.

Marian Ridley, Director of Evelina London, says: “We want to ensure that GPs, schools, social care services and hospitals work together to offer children and young people a higher standard of care, where and when they need it.

“We are bringing together what is already outstanding about hospital and community care under the ‘Evelina London’ name.”

Patients with long-term health conditions who need regular help from services across hospital and community services will be cared for by one team so they won’t have to repeat their information to different teams. Whether they are being cared for by a nurse, physiotherapist, doctor or occupational therapist, the staff will work together to decide on the best course of treatment in the most suitable location.

Children with less serious conditions can avoid a hospital stay as they will be able to have care closer to where they live.

Angela Dawe, Director of Community Services, says: “This is an exciting time. By sharing information and talking about our patients’ care – and involving families in that process – we can ensure that care is tailored to the child - meeting their needs in hospital, in school or at home."