WellChild Nurses Annual Meeting 2025
WellChild Nurses from across the UK gathered in Manchester for the annual WellChild Nurses Meeting – an essential day of collaboration, learning, and innovation in the field of children’s nursing and complex care.
On Thursday, February 27th, WellChild Nurses from across the UK gathered in Manchester for the annual WellChild Nurses Meeting – an essential day of collaboration, learning, and innovation in the field of children’s nursing and complex care. Taking place in a different location each year, the event serves as a key opportunity for WellChild Nurses to come together, share insights, and engage with expert speakers from across the sector.
A Gathering of Experts and Practitioners
This year’s meeting featured a host of distinguished guest speakers, each offering valuable perspectives on advancing care for children and young people with complex medical needs. Among them were:
- Ellen Duke, Deputy Director for Children and Young People’s Nursing, NHS England
- Dr Kate Oulton, Consultant Nurse for Co-Production and Senior Research Fellow, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust
- Dr Ross Langley, PhD MBChB MRCPCH – Paediatric Consultant in Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow
- Arvind Nagra, Paediatric Nephrologist and Ready Steady Go Lead, Southampton Children’s Hospital
- Jess Sainsbury, Head of Engagement, Florence Nightingale Foundation
- Danielle Chambers, Social Welfare and Housing Lead, Pan Thames Paediatric LTV Programme
- Mark Whiting, WellChild Professor of Community Children’s Nursing, University of Hertfordshire. WellChild Clinical Advisory Group
- Carli Whittaker, Head of Nursing Practice, Royal College of Nursing
The day also included an inspiring address from WellChild CEO, Matt James, who reinforced the importance of the WellChild Nurse programme in ensuring families across the UK are empowered with the confidence to care for their children at home.
First to speak at the event was Shevonne Waines, WellChild Family Tree member, and member of Parents of WellChild (POW). She shared her family’s journey in caring for their son Henry who has complex medical needs. She shared her lived experiences across various programmes, in the hope future health and social care professionals can collaborate with parents.
A Platform for Growth and Shared Learning
Workshops and breakout sessions throughout the day provided attendees with the chance to discuss best practices, explore new research, and address challenges facing children’s complex care nursing. Collaboration was at the heart of each session, allowing nurses to gain fresh insights and take-home valuable knowledge to apply in their roles.
Matt James, WellChild CEO said:
“The WellChild Nurses programme remains a cornerstone of WellChild’s mission, supporting families of children with complex medical needs and enabling care at home rather than in hospital. The Annual Meeting is not only an opportunity for professional development but also a chance to celebrate the impact WellChild Nurses have on families with seriously ill children across the UK.
As the WellChild Nurse programme continues to expand, gatherings like this serve as a powerful reminder of the dedication, expertise, and compassion that define this remarkable community of professionals.”
Stay tuned for more updates on the WellChild Nurse programme and the incredible work being done to support children and families nationwide.
