A group of young patients recently took to the stage to showcase their research at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health annual conference in Birmingham.
Katie, Arial, Daniel, Matty, Tynara, Josie, Alex, and Abbie are members of the Youth Forum, which is specifically for patients aged 14-24 who have used Newcastle Hospitals’ services.
It comes together throughout the year to work on projects that are important to them. Their most recent project analysed school exam experiences for young people with long-term health conditions.
The results were presented at the conference to over 1000 delegates, where they demonstrated their project’s journey, from developing a questionnaire through to analysing the results.
The data will now be used to inform a letter for clinicians that can be sent to schools to advise how best they can be supporting during exams.
Empowering young people
Jo Ball, Great North Youth Collective Engagement Coordinator, said:
“The conference was a great opportunity to showcase the group’s diligent work and achievements.
“Events like this also highlight the importance of youth-led initiatives in shaping healthcare services that are inclusive, sensitive, and responsive to the needs of young people.
“The Youth Forum’s efforts help to empower young individuals to become active participants in their health and wellbeing.”
The forum is currently looking for people 14-24 years old to join the group. All you need is an interest in sharing your experiences of healthcare and a desire to shape future services and research.
A great privilege
21-year-old Matty is a member of the forum and says:
“I have been a part of the forum for just over two years. Since joining, we have worked on a variety of different projects assessing what could be done better within the NHS system, and how we can bring change to benefit young people.
“An example of the projects that we have been working on is our recent study on the effects long-term hospital stays have on young people, and how they can be better supported during this time.
“I’ve been in that situation, so it felt extremely important to feel I am making a change to the system, and treatment of young people.
“Being part of the youth forum has been a great privilege to me, and I am extremely proud of what we have completed so far.”
How to join the forum
Joining the forum is not just about adding an impressive line to your CV—it’s about real, tangible experience that impacts lives.
Whether you’re contemplating a career in healthcare or looking to develop skills that will benefit you in any professional path, our forum offers a unique platform to do just that.
Under the guidance of experienced professionals, you’ll engage in discussions, partake in decision-making processes, and contribute to projects that influence healthcare services and outcomes.
To find out more, get in touch with Jo Ball by emailing joanne.ball@nhs.net.
