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The magazine of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
SUMMER 2021
RCPCH TURNS 25
New RCPCH The PAFTAs 2021 Good vibes Close to home
I N S I DE
President Celebrating this year’s The many benefits of a Top location tips for
Dr Camilla Kingdon winners and more positive mindset at work this year’s holidays
Page 4 Page 12 Page 20 Page 28
Contact
We’d love to hear
from you – get in
touch at
milestones@
rcpch.ac.uk
Contents Summer 2021
Editor's pick
The editorial team hope you enjoy the
summer edition of Milestones, which
20
12
commemorates 25 years of RCPCH
(look out for the special article with the
contributions of colleagues who have
been members from the start, as well 21 M
y great uncle –
as a specially commissioned poem by
Captain Sir Tom Moore
Dr Adam Briki pays tribute to
Tomfoolery!) I’m new as the trainee
his famous great uncle
representative on the team, I’m an ST5
in East Yorkshire. I love the positivity of
this edition, with a real (and much- EVERY ISSUE
22
needed, now more than ever) focus
on the way we can lift each other up –
4 Update
RCPCH news, training
from random acts of kindness, to ways
opportunities, meet your new
of fostering satisfaction at work and
President, and more
improving staff retention, to a fantastic
and innovative package designed THIS ISSUE 11 R
CPCH &Us
to support international medical
12 The PAFTAs Random acts of kindness to thank
graduates who are new to the UK. And A history of the PAFTAs and those who have worked so hard
so many interesting and inspirational this year's winners during the pandemic
people – our new President, Dr Camilla
Kingdon; Captain Sir Tom Moore, and of 14 RCPCH turns 25 22 Members
course the winners of the PAFTAs. Also Members who were there from News and views from members
included are some ideas of places to the start reflect on the last 25
years of paediatrics 27 International
visit in the UK, so, whether the weather
My experience as an international
is favourable or just… the usual, here’s
hoping for a summer adventure.
19 Research awards medical graduate
The winners of the 2021
Research Awards 28 Wellbeing
Dr Maddy Fogarty Hover Staycation inspiration
20 What makes you come
to work? 30 A Day in the Life
How a positive focus on work Dr A. Prabhu Rajendran,
can help with staff retention Consultant Paediatrician,
and wellbeing Cambridge Community Services
Copyright of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. All rights reserved; no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise – without prior permission of the publishers. The views,
opinions and policies expressed in Milestones do not necessarily reflect those of the College. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy
of the contents of this publication, no responsibility can be accepted for any error, inconsistency or omission. Products and services advertised in Milestones are
also not recommended or endorsed by the College. Readers should exercise their own discretion and, where necessary, obtain appropriate independent advice
about their suitability. Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health is a registered charity in England and Wales (1057744) and in Scotland (SC038299). Registered
address: 5-11 Theobalds Road, Holborn, London WC1X 8SH. Head of Design: Simon Goddard Project manager: Emma Dance Publisher: James Houston.
Milestones is published four times per year on behalf of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health by James Pembroke Media, 90 Walcot Street, Bath,
BA1 5BG. T: 01225 337777. Advertising: Alex Brown, Head of Corporate Partnerships advertising@rcpch.ac.uk
EDITORIAL Managing editor: Aisling Beecher @AislingBeecher Editorial board: Dr Seb Gray @SebJGray Dr Hannah Baynes
@HLB27 Dr James Dearden @drjamesdearden Dr Dita Aswani @DrDita Dr Maddy Fogarty Hover @I_am_spottacus
KEEP IN TOUCH @RCPCHTweets @RCPCH @RCPCH milestones@rcpch.ac.uk
Milestones SUMMER 2021 3
KEEP IN TOUCH
We’d love to hear from you,
get in touch through our channels
Twitter @RCPCHTweets
Facebook @RCPCH
Instagram @RCPCH
The latest news and views milestones@rcpch.ac.uk
Dr Camilla
Kingdon
RCPCH President
@CamillaKingdon
NEW ROLE
Meet your
new President
IT GIVES ME GREAT PLEASURE to
welcome you to the summer edition of
Milestones – my very first as President
of RCPCH. I am both thrilled and deeply
honoured to have this role and as I set out on
a three-year journey with you, I am conscious about ourselves and our workforce, while also disease, are far more likely to succumb to the
of the responsibility of this job as well as the focussing on child health and the huge health virus. So, our response has to be to tackle
opportunities that lie ahead. inequalities that exist. If we approach these the ‘edifice’. And we can do this! We can use
It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the problems with compassion and ubuntu, we’ll our stories and experiences of the children
challenges! Many of us have not seen treasured start to find solutions. We will begin to look and families we care for, to shine a light on
family members for a very long time. Most at our clinical teams and find explicit values inequalities and to be part of the solution,
of us have not had a decent holiday for ages. to underpin how we work together that are whether that is by campaigning for clean air,
All of us have struggled with the huge number based on kindness and care. This isn’t soft and or highlighting food poverty, or emphasising
of adjustments we’ve had to make in our lives sentimental stuff! We know that healthcare the importance of education.
since the beginning of 2020. How on earth teams that feel valued function more The College is galvanised to play its part.
can we find the energy and creativity to effectively, are more likely to stay in their jobs We have ambitious plans to focus on ‘lifelong
move forwards? and produce safer patient care and improved careers’ and dig deep into some of our
Let me share my way of approaching times clinical outcomes. This approach means we problems with retaining paediatricians in our
like these. I am compelled by the concept of can tackle all aspects of how we work, be that specialty all the way through to retirement.
‘ubuntu’ which I saw in abundance when embracing new technologies, considering how Our equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI)
I grew up in South Africa. Ubuntu means money is spent, thinking about the planned work is already making changes to the way the
“I am, because we are” and describes the notion changes to enhance systems integration. College works. EDI is an area that cuts across
that we do not exist as solitary individuals but Using ubuntu to consider how we as everything we do – whether we are thinking
are part of a common humanity. So we do not paediatricians actively play our role in about our workforce, or tackling health
need to tackle problems alone – we can reach tackling health inequalities makes total inequalities in the children and young people
out to others and share the burden together. sense too. Martin Luther King Jnr said “True we care for. Similarly, our Climate Change
The concept is underpinned by the idea of compassion is more than flinging a coin to a Working Group has five active workstreams
looking out for one another – not just those we beggar; it comes to see that an edifice which which will impact all our work – global child
know and love, but also those we don’t. produces beggars needs restructuring.” health, impact on children and so much more.
The reason I think ubuntu is more relevant The pandemic has brutally shown us that Please join me in working in all these
now than ever, is that we have the dual communities that are poor and who carry important areas. Together, in a spirit of
challenges of needing to think long and hard a disproportionate burden of preventable compassion and ubuntu, we can do this!
04 SUMMER 2021 Milestones
UPDATE
The PAFTAs
“The PAFTAs have served as an
uplifting reminder of just how
incredible our colleagues can be”
P12
RCPCH
AT 25 FACTS NEW ROLE
NEW VICE
PRESIDENT FOR
TRAINING AND
ASSESSMENT
433
I AM EXCITED be elected to this role
and following in the footsteps of
MEMBERS LIVE WITH Dr David Evans who has done such a
ANOTHER MEMBER
fantastic job. Most people know that
OF THE COLLEGE
the Shape of Training changes are on
DIVERSITY the way; much work has already been
Working for change 492
NUMBER OF
done and I expect it to remain a key
priority for my tenure. The headline
PROFESSORS is that training will move to a two
I’M EXCITED THAT phase 2 of the College’s AMONGST OUR level programme with an indicative
equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) work is MEMBERS seven year length. More importantly,
underway! Phase 2 sets clear time bound goals core training will be more holistic and
spread over four designated workstreams. broader with training opportunities
This recognises that matters surrounding reaching out to primary care and
EDI affect how we each experience life as community paediatrics, as well as
Dr Segn Nedd
paediatricians, how our patients and their child mental health and public health.
19
Paediatrics ST6
families experience and access care and how I view this part of Shape of Training
Evelina London
Children’s Hospital those facilitating College work (staff and as particularly exciting; properly
volunteers) need robust systems to support 15 SIRS & 4 DAMES implemented it will be great for trainees,
RCPCH Trainees
– AMONGST OUR
Committee Rep for EDI delivering more inclusive services and fairer
MEMBERS
for children and young people and for
@Segn_Nedd outcomes for all. our specialty going forward. One of the
Our population continues to diversify and
our workforce is no different. As Rep for EDI on the Trainees
Committee, I have had the privilege of talking to many trainees
TOP 5 big challenges will be to ensure equity
of trainee experience across the four
nations as we bring these changes in.
1) SARAH
across the country. I’ve been inspired by the dedication and 2) REBECCA I am delighted to see issues of
innovative steps various paediaticians are taking to try and 3) DAVID wellbeing, retention, EDI and workforce
improve the health of children and young people and also the lives 4) ELIZABETH high on the College agenda and I am
5) HELEN
of paediatricians who don’t always feel acknowledged, included or looking forward to working on these
are disadvantaged simply because of different aspects of who they THE TOP FIVE MOST vital areas for training.
are. All of this has been used to ensure that the perspectives and POPULAR MEMBERS’ Work life
NAMES
lived experiences of trainees are fed back in. We really are stronger balance is
together and I’m always happy to be contacted to hear more. also vital
I am also proud that I was able to join alongside various and I intend
dedicated and dynamic individuals in the EDI member reference to maintain
group, helping to turn the cogs and build momentum from phase mine. I am a
241
1 into phase 2. We have a real chance to see sustainable changes Dr Cathryn keen cyclist,
Chadwick
and provisions embedded into “how we do things” and that “we” and I also
Consultant
includes us all. I’m so glad to see things on the way. PEOPLE HAVE
Paediatrician
enjoy getting
BEEN AWARDED
Northampton together with
HONORARY
Read about the College’s next steps on EDI FELLOWSHIP BY General Hospital friends
www.rcpch.ac.uk/edi THE COLLEGE @cathrynchadwic1 or family.
Milestones SUMMER 2021 05
RCPCH AT 25
UPDATE The College’s
membership has
grown from 4107
in 1996 to over
20,000 in 2021
Dr Chris Course
ST7 Neonatal
Grid Trainee
Health Education
and Improvement
Wales
RCPCH Co-Chair
of the Task & Finish
Group for Trainee
Research Networks
@chriscourse
It is important to
build research
into training
RESEARCH
Building research
experience into training
HIGH QUALITY RESEARCH You may ask what is a
is vital to the ongoing TRN? Like my Co-Chairs, I’ve
advancement of clinical been involved with running
practice, however the number a regional TRN for several
of clinical academics in the years and seen the benefits
NHS workforce is declining a collaborative approach to
and, especially in child health, larger-scale, multiple-site
the capacity to undertake projects have brought, not only
clinical research is reducing. for learning to successfully
In addition, as a trainee it can manage, analyse, present, and
be challenging to know how publish our findings, but also
to access opportunities to the positive impact it has on
become involved with research, clinical practice and patient
especially when there are many care. The key is it’s the trainees
competing demands on our who maintain their network
time. and lead on managing projects. continue developing regional are experienced and skilled in
The College has recognised TRNs develop ideas, co-ordinate TRNs across the UK, maintain a research, increasing research
the importance of building efforts across multiple sites and collaborative network between capacity. Wouldn’t it be great
research experience into source senior or specialist help them, offer advice and support if trainees could run a high-
training, beginning with the where needed, in addition to their endeavours. We hope not quality, funded, UK-wide, novel
Progress Curriculum, and now providing educational events. only to improve the training research study in a few years’
by launching the new Trainee The College’s TRN Task experience, but also to create time? That’s our hope with the
Research Network (TRN). & Finish Group aims to help a community of trainees who RCPCH TRN.
Find out more about the Trainee Research Network www.rcpch.ac.uk/trainee-research-network
06 SUMMER 2021 Milestones
UPDATE
Motivation
”Staff retention and wellbeing is an
important issue in the NHS, which
is the largest employer in the UK”
P20
Staff
Spotlight
Dr Danya
Glaser
Honorary
Respnding to perplexing Consultant Child
presentations is a & Adolescent
complex issue Psychiatrist
GOSH
NEW GUIDANCE
Nishanthi Talawila
Perplexing presentations and Da Camara
fabricated or induced illness Systematic Reviewer
I JOINED THE COLLEGE in 2017 as
THIS NEW describes a pathway for consensus is obtained a Systematic Reviewer in the Research
GUIDANCE includes responding to perplexing about the nature of the and Quality Improvement division. Child
changes in conceptual presentations. harm to the child and the Protection Evidence is one of my main
approaches and new The essence of the nature of a health and responsibilities; a series of systematic
definitions of perplexing approach is for a lead education rehabilitation reviews on recognising physical signs of
presentations (PP) and paediatrician, supported plan to restore the child abuse and neglect.
fabricated or induced by the Named Doctor to optimal functioning. A systematic review involves answering
illness (FII). The and the safeguarding If the parents do not clinical research questions by identifying,
guidance lists alerting team to ascertain the support the plan, referral evaluating, and summarising findings
signs suggestive of current state of health of to children’s social care of all relevant research studies. When
possible FII. Only a the child. This includes is required. appropriate, findings can be combined to
minority of children gathering information The guidance also give a more reliable answer than individual
with these alerting from all health and other describes the roles of studies.
signs require immediate professionals involved Named and Designated Systematic review methodologies can
protection from likely in the care of the child, Doctors, notes on be used in different ways, from providing
imminent serious risk to with the full knowledge chronologies, and evidence as the basis for clinical guidelines
their health and life, in of the parents. A need for training. It to the more streamlined approach used
which case usual child consensus meeting is acknowledges the for the COVID-19 research evidence
protection processes are then convened with all burden which the summaries. The best part of my role is
required. Otherwise, professionals involved approach poses to finding answers for our members where
alerting signs are to agree whether the paediatricians, who there are unknowns, never more important
termed perplexing alerting signs are require guidance and than identifying critical, new evidence on
presentations. explained by a verified employers’ support in COVID-19 in children and young people.
The guidance medical condition. If not, fulfilling their roles. Outside of work you will usually find me
in the gym or trying to convince people to
Read more on the guidance www.rcpch.ac.uk/pp-fii join me there!
Milestones SUMMER 2021 07
UPDATE
College news JOURNAL
BMJ PAEDIATRICS OPEN
REVIEW ARTICLES ARE VERY
POPULAR with readers and are
the most frequently downloaded
content. They have ranged from
the management of common
conditions: urinary tract infections,
Imti varicella in the newborn and dog
Choonara bites, to rarer conditions such as
BMJ leprosy and oesophageal diseases
Paediatrics Open
Editor-in-Chief in children. Other review articles
@BMJ_PO have covered community child
THE VOICE FOR CHILDREN health issues – such as bullying,
child trafficking and preparing
AND YOUNG PEOPLE children for climate related disasters.
The writing of a review is an excellent way of
I DON’T THINK any of us have longed more involving junior doctors in writing an article.
for the season of warm weather, more If you are a junior doctor and are interested
daylight and the prospect of a holiday, it feels in writing, then discuss it with a more senior
almost too much to hope for, doesn’t it? colleague and see if they will supervise you.
As we look back over the past year, I’m Review articles play an essential role in the
struck by the fact that as paediatricians education of paediatricians.
Jo Revill you were asked to do extraordinary things
RCPCH CEO and that despite the grief and often huge JOURNAL
@8jorev frustrations, there were also good innovative
services that sprung up, as well as new ADC JOURNAL UPDATE
friendships between doctors who previously might not have
worked together. I APPRECIATE I MIGHT SOUND like
As a College, we were the voice for children and young a scratched CD/ tangled cassette/
people during the pandemic, ensuring that we campaigned stuck stylus (delete non-relevant
effectively for those who would otherwise be side-lined. option according to era of choice)
The open letter from members on free school meals was a but I still get a rise in pulse and
turning point for us, as was the advocacy work explaining a sense of privilege when I look
why schools needed to stay open for as long as possible. Nick Brown at what has just been or is about
The webinars, research evidence summaries and many Archives to appear...
guidance documents on services, staffing and rotas, of Disease in Spoiled for choice: new data
Childhood Editor-
training needs and clinical issues were produced thanks in-Chief on Covid (household spread and
to our Officers who worked tirelessly to get them right. @ADC_BMJ
immune- epidemiology of child and
I’m proud that we produced posters for parents and adult infection); clinical law; voices
young people across the UK on what to do if you or your from history; evidential weight of
child was unwell. We’re not complacent about what lies signs in child protection, global
ahead. The path to recovery of children’s services will trends in vehicle accidents…must stop here
be long and arduous. As a College, though, we come at before my word count runs out .. and I lose the
this with a renewed determination to give children and opportunity to say ‘thanks’
young people more visibility, voice and a more responsive Thanks to Russell, for his Presidency, for his
healthcare system. resilience in the face of an infection no one
I speak for all the staff when I say that we hope you look knew about 15 months ago, for his versatility in
after yourselves and think of your own wellbeing. We know taking this on as EU departure smoldered stage
that many of you have not taken breaks, and we hope you right and for practicing as he spoke- that’s
manage to enjoy the summer. some achievement!
08 SUMMER 2021 Milestones
RCPCH AT 25
Six men and four UPDATE
women have
been Presidents
of the College
NEW ROLE
New Vice President for Education and
Professional Development
HELLO, GLAD TO HAVE THE the health of our speciality. I’ve had health. We have some big challenges
Dr Jonathan CHANCE to introduce myself as the the great pleasure of being convenor as we emerge from lockdown, but
Darling new Vice President for Education for PEdSIG (Paediatric Educators’ those also bring opportunities. For
Clinical Associate and Professional Development. I’m a Special Interest Group) for the last example, how do we keep the best
Professsor
general paediatrician based at Leeds three years. of what we’ve learnt about remote
and Honorary
Consultant Children’s Hospital at the LGI. I’m I’ve always had a passion for and online education (generally ‘2D’
Paediatrician also Clinical Associate Professor paediatric education, and am so screen-based) as we return to a ‘3D
University of
Leeds and Leeds at the University of Leeds, and am delighted and honoured to be able world’? What should our conferences
Children’s Hospital Designated Doctor for Leeds. As to take up this new role. I’m looking look like post-Covid? I’m keen for the
@JonathanDarli14 Director of Student Support in our forward to getting to know and College to become the first place you
School of Medicine, I believe more working with colleagues and friends, turn for attractive, accessible and up-
than ever in promoting good mental old and new, to help us continue to to-date resources for education and
health and wellbeing in students build a thriving specialty, and in professional development. I would
and doctors, and that this is vital to our work of advocating for child love to hear your ideas!
NEW ROLE
Introducing our new Chair of
the Trainees’ Committee
I’M A TRAINEE based in the West important to acknowledge that trainees supporting the College’s EDI work as
Dr Laura Kelly Midlands and have called Birmingham bring with them a multitude of personal better representation of all aspects of our
Paediatric ST5 my home for the last 14 years. I experiences and characteristics that diverse trainee population.
Worcestershire
Acute Hospital NHS
get excited by all things paediatric make every journey through paediatric Knowing that there is no ‘typical
Trust gastroenterology and will be sub- training unique. This diversity is so trainee’ is an important place to start
RCPCH Chair
specialising in this area come September. important to ensure the workforce when seeking to understand how
of the Trainees’
Committee I come into this new role having reflects the children and young people we retain trainees. I plan to lead the
@lauramkelly represented the West Midlands on the they care for. Trainees Committee in supporting the
Trainees’ Committee since 2017. However, it does not escape my notice College’s work in understanding the
At this point I wasn’t sure what else that the Trainees’ Committee does scale of and reasons for trainee attrition
to say: a momentary thought suggested not always reflect the diversity of our and developing targeted interventions
“surely I was a fairly typical paediatric trainee population. To that end, I hope based upon these findings.
trainee?” Of course, a much louder that I can improve how it functions I’ll keep you updated as to the
thought reminded me how wrong that so that it is easier to get involved, and Committee’s progress and please do look
would be, because there is no such that those who do join are assured of into our committee observer scheme if
thing as a ‘typical trainee’. It is this a supportive induction process, with you want to come see us in action. In the
concept that is the start to my hopes and continued assistance in developing the meantime, here’s to all of us paediatric
plans for the Trainees’ Committee. It is role. I want to couple this process by trainees, no two alike, but all wonderful!
Check out the College’s Trainees’ Committee www.rcpch.ac.uk/trainees-committee
Milestones SUMMER 2021 09
RCPCH AT 25
UPDATE The College’s face
to face Annual Celebrating 25 years
Conference in 2019 “This is our College –
had over 1,500 in committed to our future and
attendance the future of all children ”
p14
Read more
Find more dates at
www.rcpch.
ac.uk/courses
Diary Dates
www.rcpch.
ac.uk/events EVENT
RECORDINGS
Here is a selection of our online and e-Learning courses. Paediatrics 2040
More courses will be confirmed in the next few weeks so Catch up on the launch of the
keep an eye on our website for further updates College’s project forecasting the
future of paediatrics in the UK.
E-LEARNING Putting children’s oral health
EMOTIONAL ABUSE CLEFT PALATE: VACCINES IN on everyone’s agenda
AND NEGLECT EXAMINATION PRACTICE Providing practical information
This e-learning module IN THE NEWBORN Learn the foundation for preventing dental decay and
aims to help learners Recommendations for of clinical vaccinology key messages for delivering
identify the key features optimal examination relevant to UK better oral health.
of emotional abuse and of the palate during practitioners working
neglect, and how these routine newborn with children. Our Behcet’s Syndrome in
should be managed examinations, including course will develop skills children and young people
using a multi-agency detection of congenital in communicating the Understand how children are
approach. anomalies. benefits of vaccination. affected by it and improve
knowledge of differential
ONLINE COURSES diagnoses and investigations
of Behcet’s like
23 JUNE 05 JULY 11 OCT presentations.
Mentoring Skills Recognising Effective educational
– introductory & neuromuscular supervision
refresher course disorders The course meets the
Designed to equip This course will help you GMC’s requirements for
delegates with the develop an approach educational supervisors
essentials to begin for early recognition of a and provides updates See more
Free online event recordings
effective mentoring range of neuromuscular on the Progress
www.rcpch.ac.uk/live-event-recordings
relationships. disorders. Curriculum.
10 SUMMER 2021 MilestonesRCPCH AT 25
RCPCH &US
Since being founded
in 2015, 7500+
children, young people
and families have
been involved with
RCPCH &Us
Random Acts of Kindness
RCPCH &Us have been thinking about ways to say thank you to all those
who have worked so hard through the pandemic, including…knitting!
THE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS the effort and positive vibes that we believe they are, appreciated and valued.
project has been meeting on a Thursday wanted, just not full of hats! Nydia: It’s been fun, enjoyable and
evening, bringing something a little bit A few group members wanted to share satisfying and good to learn different
different and a lot of laughter to our their knitting and thoughts with you: stitches and meet the RCPCH &Us team.
lives. RCPCH &Us met online to learn Emilia: I’ve found it challenging, It’s made me feel good and I think the
how to knit a rainbow hat to pop onto entertaining and exhilarating and been people that get it will feel very touched.
a small chocolate egg to pass on to key laughing my head off at the group because Anne: It has been enjoyable, fun and with
workers as Random Acts of Kindness. of them being so funny. I’ve been learning lots of laughter! I’ve enjoyed meeting new
We recruited Anne, a retired NICU to cast on in knitting and feel included lovely people and helping them to develop
nurse with knitting skills to show us and happy that I am giving the knitting to a new skill that they may want to carry
what to do and had a mental health someone (we better get a move on!). I hope on after the project ends. I’ve learnt that
worker and a community group worker they think that they feel acknowledged kindness comes in many ways and have
help create a pattern and work out what and happy to be shown this kindness and been privileged to be involved. It’s been
was needed. appreciation and that the people reading a chance to help others in some way and
Being together, laughing, sharing, this will feel inspired to do similar acts of an eye-opener to see what RCPCH &Us
learning, talking and being focused on kindness. are doing for young people and the key
something positive has been brilliant, Nicola: The project has been fun, hilarious workers who are there for us.
even if we have had to change our knitting and frustrating! It’s been great to be part We sent our first one out to Dr Mike
plans to mini rainbow scarves or capes of a group who are learning to knit too, Linney to say thank you for being the
(easier than hats) to go in a box of goodies and to knit with my daughter. It has been chair of the Engagement Committee –
to key workers. Our Random Acts of good to do something worthwhile. I hope keep an eye on Twitter for more knitting
Kindness will be unique and full of key workers who receive them feel, and news!
RCPCH &Us have
been meeting online
and learning to knit
ABOUT
RCPCH &Us: The Children and Young People’s Engagement Team delivers
projects and programmes across the UK to support patients, siblings, families
and under 25s, and gives them a voice in shaping services, health policy and
practice. RCPCH &Us is a network of young voices who work with the College,
providing information and advice on children’s rights and engagement.
KEEP IN TOUCH @RCPCH_and_Us @rcpch_and_us @RCPCHandUs and_us@rcpch.ac.uk
Milestones SUMMER 2021 11FEATURE
AWARDS
THE
Welsh PAFTA
winners in 2019
PAFTAs
2021
IN CELEBRATING THIS
This PAFTA tsunami continued with early
adopters in the East of England (Nancy
Winners from
the Wessex
PAFTAs in 2016
therefore, for each of our four sub-deaneries,
YEAR’S PAFTA WINNERS, Bostock and Wilf Kelsall) doing an incredible we have regional awards – judged blindly by
job. Within three years, the PAFTAs had independent panels. The overall winners are
WE ALSO TAKE A LOOK spread to every UK region, each with their announced at the Scottish Paediatric Society
AT THE EVOLUTION OF local touches, and went national thanks to the Conference on St Andrews day
THE AWARDS OVER THE championing of Andrew Long, David Evans To date Scotland has an excellent success
and the late, great Simon Newell (alongside rate within the national PAFTAs. Laura Kane
FOUR NATIONS many others). Keeping the CYP at the centre of received the award for Senior Trainee of the
everything we do, it was fantastic to have &Us Year; in 2019 we had two national winners
England involved, judging the winners of the very first in Phillipa Wood (Senior Trainee of the Year)
I n 2014 morale
amongst paediatric
trainees seemed to
national PAFTAs. Recognising paediatrics
isn’t just about the doctors, nursing and allied
health professional awards have since been
and Ruth Bland (Educational Supervisor of the
Year) and back in 2018 Julia Fuchs won Junior
Trainee of the Year.
be dipping. As the introduced in some regions. No doubt, the Scotland is immensely proud of its record in
regional RCPCH Trainee PAFTAs will continue to evolve and change. the PAFTAs and we hope to maintain it with
Dr Seb Gray Representative for I’m excited to see what happens and hope they some very strong contenders again this year.
General Paediatric Wessex, I wanted to do continue to spread joy and celebrate excellence During this extremely challenging year the
Consultant
Salisbury NHS
something to not just in paediatrics. PAFTAs have served as an uplifting reminder
Foundation Trust boost spirits but also of just how incredible our colleagues can be.
Milestones
Editorial Board
bring people together Scotland Wales
@SebGray and celebrate the
excellent people from the
region. The Paediatric Awards for Training
Achievements (PAFTAs) were born. Luring
S cotland as a
deanery has a
wealth of outstanding
T he PAFTAs in
Wales began in
February 2019. Looking
in a locum agency for sponsorship, designing trainees and supervisors back now it feels like
a logo, choosing a venue, disseminating a Dr Cesca who consistently go the a distant memory. So
Coleman Dr Hannah
simple Survey Monkey, making certificates extra mile to deliver much has happened in
Davies
and posters and advertising the event was Paediatrics ST5 excellent care to patients the last 12 months, I’m
Royal Hospital Paediatrics ST4
all massively time consuming. However, for Sick Children, and support for their The Grange so glad we had a great
reading all the amazing nominations made it Edinburgh colleagues. Accordingly, University Hospital evening to celebrate
@cescacoleman @Hannah08271563
worthwhile and seeing the look on people’s we embrace the PAFTAs before the pandemic hit.
faces when they received their personalised as a way to celebrate many of these individuals. In 2019, a small group of enthusiastic
certificates was heart-warming. I didn’t Year on year, we continue to receive trainees decided to start the PAFTAs process
measure or analyse anything but it definitely more inspiring nominations from trainees in Wales and to present the awards at our
felt like a positive ripple effect had begun. and consultants. We are a large deanery, annual national St David’s Day Conference.
12 SUMMER 2021 MilestonesFEATURE
competitive streak. Each year we have added were priceless and did not disappoint.Now
new categories including nursing and allied that I have taken the leap into consultant-
The first ever health professionals and the number of hood, I have left the NI PAFTAs in very
PAFTA winners in
responses has multiplied. capable hands. The PAFTAs are now firmly
Northern Ireland
We hoped in 2020 to celebrate the awards embedded in the NI paediatric calendar.
at the first NI regional paediatric ball but The team will continue to ensure special
The response was amazing. We decided to send unfortunately Covid had other plans so contributions to paediatrics in NI are
a nomination notification to everyone who was we adapted and delivered a virtual awards recognised, valued and celebrated and will
nominated. This trickle of appreciation cascaded ceremony. The ‘Oscars style’ acceptance videos continue to bring fresh ideas each year.
down to all levels and became a tidal wave of
excitement and appreciation.
The evening was everything we had hoped HERE ARE THIS YEAR’S WINNERS
for. If anyone has ever been to Wales, you will
know we love a good party. We couldn’t think
of a better way to enjoy ourselves than to Dr Elke Reunis Dr Jeanne
ST3 Paediatric Uhiriwe
celebrate the amazing achievements of our
Trainee ST5 Paediatric
paediatric family… the prosecco wall was also a Royal Wolverhampton Trainee
great addition. NHS Trust North Middlesex
Looking forward, we are always finding @EReunis University Hospital
ways to improve our PAFTAs process. We are
planning to establish a review panel to make Junior Trainee Senior Trainee (joint award)
our judging process as robust as possible. I can’t “I’m really honoured to receive “I love paediatrics and feel privileged
wait for our next face to face celebration. this PAFTA and want to say a to be a part of it. It has been a tough
huge thank you to everyone in the year at work, made easier only by my
Dr Julie-Ann Collins
#WMPaedsFamily for supporting me consultants and fellow trainees at North
Consultant Paediatric
Emergency Medicine on my paediatric journey – could not Middlesex. Their support has been
Royal Belfast Hospital have done it without you all.” invaluable and I am thankful for it.”
for Sick Children
@DrJA_C
Dr Orode Mode Dr Alexandra
Northern Ireland Paediatric Nettleton
I
Consultant Community Child
first became aware of the PAFTAs as Queen Elizabeth Health Trainee
RCPCH Trainee Representative for the Queen Mother Community Child
Hospital Health Partnership,
Northern Ireland (NI) in late 2017 and was
@OrodeM Bristol
determined to bring them to life in NI. I could
@AlexandraNettl3
easily think of many colleagues who had
inspired me over the years – exceptional role Educational Supervisor
models and patient champions. “I feel privileged and elated to be Senior Trainee (joint award)
The inaugural awards night was held after nominated for the PAFTAs award, “I was delighted to be nominated
the RCPCH Christmas lecture with some and then winning is the icing on and very surprised indeed to win!
festive nibbles. The evening turned out to be a the cake. It is exhilarating to be Being a community child health
hit and all winners received glass trophies. recognised for the role I enjoy trainee I feel proud representing
My vision for the NI PAFTAs was for doing. Helping colleagues achieve my speciality. This last year has
it to not only celebrate our unsung heroes their hopes and aspirations, is a been like no other. I was lucky
and excellent colleagues but to provide an highlight of being an educational to be part of an outstanding
opportunity to connect socially outside of supervisor. The opportunity to listen team and was able to adapt
work and to unite the paediatric departments to colleagues who are going through opportunities and care around
throughout the region. A PAFTAs committee tough times and lending a helping the pandemic. My experiences
was formed and continues to expand hand has been a privilege which I do were a reflection of the positive
annually. The second year we hosted a not take for granted. My educational environment and the wonderful
successful awards evening with a smartphone supervisors whist in training laid the team that I have had the pleasure
quiz which really unleashed everyone’s foundation which I hope to pass on.” of working with here in Bristol.”
Milestones SUMMER 2021 13FEATURE
RCPCH TURNS 25
AS THE COLLEGE TURNS 25, WE TAKE A MOMENT TO REFLECT ON THE CHANGES THAT
HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN THE LAST QUARTER CENTURY AND CELEBRATE PAEDIATRICS
THROUGH THE EYES OF MEMBERS WHO WERE THERE FROM THE START
Professor Steve Dr Dita Aswani Dr Patricia Hamilton
Turner FRCPCH Consultant Hon FRCPCH
Consultant Paediatrician Retired Consultant
Paediatrician Derbyshire and Senior Lecturer in
Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital Neonatology
Children’s Hospital Milestones Devon
RCPCH Registrar Editorial Board
RCPCH Former President
@SteveTurnerABDN @drdita
A s I get less young I increasingly sound
like my dad. And in testimony to that,
1996 does not seem that long ago. Back then
T wenty-five years ago, I was starting
work in the NHS as one of the first
paediatric pre-registration House Officers
D ecades ago, when I was a newly qualified
doctor, we were invited to apply for our
preferred posts and I applied to a surgical firm.
I had just got my MRCP (yes the old one) and at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, a newly Shortly before the closing date a registrar drew
was doing a one-in-four on call as a Senior created post. The College inception me aside and said I should know that this
House Officer (ironically the most junior hadn’t reached my consciousness and consultant never appointed a woman to his
paediatric grade). But paediatricians and my paediatric world consisted only of my firm. I applied elsewhere.
child health have been through a lot since ‘Firm’ wherein I was the junior apprentice In the old days, you scoured the back
1996. Treatments have been revolutionised, learning on the job without a prescriptive pages of the BMJ to find a posting. Most jobs
e.g. insulin pumps, CFTR modifiers. curriculum. The only rule was to work lasted six months and you moved frequently,
Vaccinations, e.g. pneumococcal, rotavirus, hard but the environment felt vibrant which was good experience but testing for life
continually change the infective conditions and free. I often had the medical notes planning. There was neither career guidance
we face. Non-communicable conditions balanced on one arm, and carried a baby nor a systematic programme to follow and
including obesity, neurodevelopmental who needed a cuddle on my opposite little feedback as to your performance. Long
disorders, anxiety, pain and extreme hip, for the entirety of the ward round. hours were the norm.
complexity have come to dominate our I learned more from the nurses about What is the College doing for us now?
workload. High profile court cases infant feeding, and changing nappies than Trainees (no longer ‘juniors’) learn from
explored ethical questions, e.g. “we can, but in subsequent antenatal classes. I could relevant teaching and experience. They can
should we?”. Registrars became Specialist autonomously wheel a chronic patient expect that they will be fairly assessed and will
Registrars and then Specialty Trainees. outside for a change of scene, ice cream be able to enter suitable rotations. Today the
Devolution of healthcare to Irish, Welsh and and fresh air in the park. I was keen to College, crucially, has a good reputation with
Scottish governments, and some English take any opportunity, so when there was a government and other movers and shakers
regions have brought profound changes to procedure one night in theatre that I could who seek us for advice on health and welfare
NHS structure (mostly unnoticed by us in assist with, the consultant surgeon called issues for young people and their families.
our day-to-day life). Scottish networks have me in from home. The staff Christmas A final point. At first the College had male
been established, and provide specialist pantomime was completely uncensored Presidents. Recent history and our new
care close to the child’s home. One constant and my memories of that first year still President show the determination of those
throughout is the Scottish Paediatric make me laugh out loud. No single day has female paediatricians ready and able to take on
Society, 100 years young in 2022. Our ever been the same, and I’m still learning. higher responsibility. Women should never be
future promises much. underestimated.
14 SUMMER 2021 MilestonesFEATURE
Dr Anna Baverstock Dr Geraint Morris
Tomos Roberts (Tomfoolery) Consultant FRCPCH
is a spoken word poet, performer and Paediatrician and Lead Consultant
filmmaker who also provides creative writing doctor for wellbeing Neonatologist
classes for young people aged 11-18 years old Musgrove Park Hospital Swansea Bay University
@ anna_annabav Health Board
For All Our Paediatricians
R I
By Tomfoolery
CPCH is 25 years old this year, and t’s a well-rehearsed story, but one to which
This year is sort of special.
so is my career in PAEDIATRICS many of us older consultants will relate: 25
It’s not just another collection of days.
For twenty five years in the making, and CHILD HEALTH years ago I was one of two Neonatal Registrars
RCPCH have pioneered the way. Proud to have started in paediatrics 25 working in a large teaching hospital. A very
years ago in Norwich. small team of consultants did a ward round
It’s a college that’s new in comparison, As a new SHO was scared and excited twice a week. When on call, we covered the
Yet here for the long haul, It’s so clear to see. in equal measure as I removed my white whole paediatric service, and the on-calls
A beautiful irony that the College of
coat were long – a weekend was Friday morning
Paediatricians Is a college still very much in
its infancy. Encouraged and nurtured by so many to Monday night. The Registrars were the
mentors and supervisors workhorses of the department. It was the hard
At the beginning of the 20th century, Diverse in role and specialty, no one size way to learn, but one learned valuable life
Paediatrics wasn’t the speciality it is today. fits all lessons.
Six doctors came together, in 1928,
Inspired by many great role models
And together they created the BPA.
Annual conferences in York – so many
Since then, there have been many advances, fond memories
But we remember their efforts, and never Training days, camaraderie throughout
forget… Even the most established of training
associations, Once began with a few baby
Rocky period as a registrar, tired, long
steps.
commute, nights, pregnant
In 1943, Donald Paterson suggested, Interest in colleague wellbeing sparked,
Paediatrics needed a college of its own. research began
Though it was fifty years of gathering support, Community child health was where I
Before a credible case could be shown.
settled
In 1996, permission was granted, So very privileged to be able to look after
and the college celebrated creation. children and their families for many
While all other colleges are named after their years Geraint in a
speciality, Only this one is named after the neonatal unit 25
able to see our service and department years ago
group of its patients.
grow
Alive and kicking with twenty thousand new consultant colleagues, so many
members, Twenty five years later, in 2021. trainees to have worked alongside Nearly everything has changed for the
Finding ways to improve the caring of children, developing their skills and teaching me better, of course. While most of us will have
Is a goal shared by each and every one. so much along the way been through many ups and downs, I am still
Corona virus enjoying my job and still learning. I have held
Two thirds of its members are women,
And a quarter are based overseas. Hit us all personally and professionally positions of responsibility that I never thought
There are members in 88 countries, Imparting team spirit as we pulled I would be capable of 25 years ago!
And 22% of them are current trainees. together The College has played a large part in
Lead by the RCPCH as we all mustered my career – from support and guidance
But wherever they’re based, or their title,
our knowledge, skills and determination in training, to the facilitation of regional
They’re all connected by one common thread.
They are people who radiate kindness, Driven by the need to protect all children collaboration, particularly in Wales, where we
And speak from their heart, and not only their Hampered by lockdowns, schools closed have our own ‘branch office’. This has been
head. Exams cancelled, futures uncertain invaluable in allowing us to see each other and
Again we drew breath, came together, work together in Wales. Thank you RCPCH
So please join me, as we celebrate
shared for all the work that you have done – may
Paediatricians,
As a birthday passes and the college proceeds. Learnt and adapted, with grateful you continue to support and encourage the
They’re the people protecting our future, Thanks to all those involved learning of your members for many more
They have been there for all of our Paeds!!! Here’s to the next 25 years! years.
Milestones SUMMER 2021 15FEATURE
warmth and nutrition. We now care for very
Dr Tina Sajjanhar Dr Tim Chambers
Hon FRCPCH immature babies and those with complex
FRCPCH
Consultant in Paediatric Retired General & medical and surgical needs who would not
Emergency Medicine Renal Physician have been expected to survive in the past.
Lewisham and Bristol
The College has also seen a revolution in
Greenwich NHS Trust
paediatric training over the years. SHOs are no
longer a ‘lost tribe’. There are clear pathways
I feel privileged to have been with the
College since the start of our journey
25 years ago, allowing us paediatricians
I became a British Paediatric Association
(BPA) officer in 1981. Small office, handful
of staff, endless discussion about the
and support throughout training. I have been
involved with some of the developments,
particularly enjoying START assessments. My
to have a stronger independent voice. economics and ethics of purchasing a word wife says that I have been lucky to be able to
I have enjoyed being part of the College processor. Stepping down in 1989, it was clear go to work in a job that I love. The friends and
community in various roles, and have to me that a College would be established colleagues that I have worked with have made
always felt valued. In my role as College within a decade. I led the opposition (we were it that way. I couldn’t ask for more.
representative on the National Major lumpers, rather than splitters), but the other
Dr Andrew Long
Incident Planning, I even spent a day side had sufficient purpose, passion and
Hon FRCPCH
at Porton Down as part of a chemical singlemindedness to overcome colleagues’
Retired Consultant
warfare exercise with my then five year uncertainty: so it came to be. Paediatrician
old daughter, very exciting! Colleges, like ships, need charts. In 1984, London
@amlong12
I have taken an active role in College some years after the government’s (Court)
examinations, in the UK and abroad, Committee on Child Health’s farsighted
vital work in progressing well-trained
paediatricians. The College has forged
relationships with international
report Fit for the Future (whose reception was
undeservedly lukewarm), the BPA published
The Future of Paediatrics and Child Health
M y memories of the College can largely
be summarised under the headings
of people, places and professionalism. I
partners, and later in my career I – its conclusions long forgotten. I welcome was privileged to have worked alongside so
joined the Global Links Programme in Paediatrics 2040 as an overdue successor, many great people, it would be difficult to
Myanmar, an opportunity to share skills not least because young people contribute. Let mention them all by name without creating
and learn new ones. us hope its impact is greater. Strategy is vital; a long list, however I must reflect on great
In parallel with hard work, I’ve nonetheless, after 50 years paediatric practice times working with Simon Newell. I was
had fun at the Annual Conferences, and observation, I am certain the heft is borne lucky enough to work closely with him
networking, educating, being educated by boots on the ground. when we were VP’s together, developing
and (sometimes) dancing the night away! the START Assessment, modernising
Dr Richard Tubman
The College brings together all those the MRCPCH and travelling to India as
FRCPCH
who are passionate about the health of College Examiners. He was a wonderful
Retired Consultant
children and young people. As I have Neonatologist paediatrician, a great advocate for the
benefitted from my association with Belfast College and a huge loss to the specialty. We
the College, I would always encourage spent many happy hours together, with
everyone to get involved, as this is our other paediatricians who always go ‘above
College – committed to our future and
the future of all children.
“
B ig day today?” asked the obstetrician as
we entered the lift together. “I suppose
so,” I replied. “Good luck in your finals, then”
and beyond’ achieving great changes for
children and their families.
My memories of places must include
he said, supportively. I said “Oh no, I’m the the Annual Conference locations and the
new Locum Consultant Paediatrician”. I’m
not sure who was more surprised (or terrified)
leaving the lift.
I have been a Tertiary Consultant
Neonatologist since 1994. I feel like Forrest
Gump, witness to many of the changes
since then and fortunate to have had a little
hand in some of them. New treatments and
Tina working with technologies have become routine but despite Andrew with Simon Newell
the College in and Hannah Baynes attending
the high-tech appearance, neonatology still
Myanmar a BAPIO dinner
revolves around gentle, family-centred care,
16 SUMMER 2021 MilestonesFEATURE
Dr Geoff Lawson
memorable evenings at BAPIO dinners before OOPE and OOPR were invented.
FRCPCH
– including karaoke! I have also been After two amazing years, a new baby and a
Retired Consultant
fortunate to travel as an Examiner to many Paediatrician and year in Canada, we returned to the UK. The
centres in the UK and overseas, sharing Clinical Director MD thesis, however, went into the attic and
Sunderland
experiences with many paediatricians from I hold my head in shame – it was shredded,
around the world. uncompleted 20 years later. The science had
Finally, the last 25 years have seen
extraordinary changes in what we can
achieve for child health, even in challenging
I n 1978 the first part MRCP was 60 general
medicine MCQs, while the second part was
paediatric, with all fees swelling RCP coffers.
moved on.
A claim to fame was being the first
consultant to take maternity leave at a
times and despite restricted resources. Over It seemed the BPA had a subsidiary role to a prestigious children’s hospital. I loved
the years we have grown and flourished as a College of adult physicians, but by the time I teaching and training so progressed through
professional organisation, but mostly as an became a consultant in 1991 an evolutionary College Tutor, Regional Advisor and then
authoritative source of information, advice process was well underway and in 1996 we Officer for Training. The pleasure of
and advocacy for children, young people and became RCPCH. working closely with the College was greater
their families. I became a regional representative in than I can possibly express and I made
2003. Council meetings in London meant a lifelong friends with staff and clinicians.
Dr Carol Roberts
(very) early train from Newcastle, but latterly So my message to you from my younger
FRCPCH
I took a train the night before and stayed at self …. get the papers written up, take
Deputy Medical Director
Nottingham University the RCP. It was not difficult to compare the opportunities as they float past under your
Hospitals NHS Trust historical backgrounds of the two Colleges nose, and enjoy your life as a paediatrician –
when staying in rooms dedicated to founder I wouldn’t have changed my career for
member 17th-century physicians of RCP. the world.
W hen I first joined the SAS Committee
at the College in 2010, I immediately
felt welcome and saw there was a job to do,
In 2007 as Policy Officer I chaired
meetings regarding the forward planning
of paediatric acute services published
Dr Steve Bryne
FRCPCH
Retired Consultant
raising the profile of SAS doctors, changing under the title Modelling the Future which Neonatologist
perceptions and offering more support. I was became a central plank of Facing the Future Middlesbrough
then appointed to the new role of Officer for published in 2011. This established important
CPD and Revalidation, the first SAS doctor to standards of care which purchasing bodies
hold an officer role. When a new Board was
created in 2016 I was appointed as one of the
four founding member Trustees.
were keen to see implemented but much less
willing to fund.
After College meetings I would catch the
H aving qualified in 1984, I became a
Consultant Neonatologist at a time
of amazing progress in newborn care both
Fans of Monty Python’s Life of Brian 5pm train from Kings Cross to Newcastle and in terms of technology, treatment and
will know the quote, “…… apart from the reached home shortly before 9pm. I always training and loved teaching APLS, NLS
sanitation, the medicine, education, wine, felt that involvement with College business and later PanStar. During this time, I also
public order, irrigation, roads, a fresh water was a privilege and certainly not a burden. I became more involved with the relatively
system, and public health, what have the would happily do it all again. new RCPCH. I became a regular traveller to
Romans ever done for us?” So to those of Theobalds Road and was later involved in
Dr Amanda
you who need convincing, what the College designing and delivering the early START
Goldstein
has given me is interest and challenge, a Hon FRCPCH courses which were innovative but also
break from the day job, confidence, the Retired Consultant immensely important to help trainees just
sense of making a difference, skills in Paediatrician before they got their CCT and applied for
Birmingham
chairing meetings, an understanding of how consultant posts.
organisations operate and most importantly The College staff have always been
a fantastic network of new friends and
colleagues from whom I have learnt so much.
These skills have allowed me to develop in
M y paediatric career was born in 1979
as a student watching a consultant
who totally loved his work. Rule number
delightful to work with and work hard to
ensure training and the work of the College
remains of high standard. The networking
my day job, and in 2018 I was appointed to one, never underestimate the importance opportunities I had from working with the
my current role as Deputy Medical Director. of being a role model. The early years were College have given me some longstanding
This would never have happened were it tough though – 27 hours straight on the friendships and a great deal of practical skill.
not for the opportunities the College has neonatal unit! It is a College of its members, so join in and
given me – my subscription has been worth Itchy feet took my husband and I to the continue to improve: if a role is advertised
every penny! West Indies on a research grant in the days apply and start your journey.
Milestones SUMMER 2021 17You can also read
