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Epilepsy Team
Epilepsy Specialist Nurse – Supporting Children with Epilepsy in School and at Home
At our school and college, we work closely with the Epilepsy Specialist Nurse (ESN) to support children and young people living with epilepsy. The ESN provides expert advice, reassurance, and practical help to families, carers, and school/college staff, helping ensure epilepsy is well managed so children can live safely, confidently, and fully.
What Does the Epilepsy Nurse Do?
The ESN offers support in several key areas:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Explains epilepsy and how it may affect your child
Advises on medication, side effects, and treatment plans
Care Planning
Helps create or update an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) for school/college
Recommends reasonable adjustments to keep your child safe during the school/college day
Training and Education
Provides training for teachers, school staff, and carers on recognising and responding to seizures
Offers guidance on administering emergency medication (e.g. buccal midazolam)
Advice and Reassurance
A point of contact for questions about:
Seizure triggers
Lifestyle factors (e.g. sleep, diet, sports)
Day-to-day epilepsy management
Liaises between families, schools, GPs, and hospital consultants
Why This Support Matters
Improves safety for children with epilepsy in all settings
Helps families feel more confident managing epilepsy at home and in the community
Ensures schools/college are well prepared to support children with seizures
Promotes inclusion, so epilepsy doesn’t prevent participation in school/college life, trips, or clubs
How to Access the Epilepsy Nurse
Children are usually referred to the Children’s Epilepsy Nurse Service by their consultant paediatrician or GP
Once referred, families can contact the nurse directly for ongoing support
📞 Contact (Herefordshire):
Wye Valley NHS Trust Main Switchboard – 01432 355444
Ask for the Children’s Epilepsy Nurse Service