Emma is a student studying Childhood and Youth at the University of Sussex. Her motivation to study this subject is driven by her personal experience of having a chronic illness in childhood and the knock-on effect this had on her education, friendships, and childhood in general. Whilst studying, Emma has found a particular interest in children’s rights especially participation. She has been able to apply this passion to volunteering on the NHS Youth Forum where she has advocated for young people to have a say in their own healthcare.
Both during and after her time on the NHS Youth Forum, Emma has been able to use her own experience to make healthcare better for young people in the future focusing on the transition to adult services and ensuring young people have been listened to during the COVID19 pandemic.
Emma is also a member of the British Medical Association Patient Liaison Group and works part time for ‘Me First’, a project that teaches healthcare professionals how to be child centred. Previously Emma was a lay member on the NICE Babies, Children and Young People’s Experience of Care guideline and a Patient Governor at Great Ormond Street Hospital.