Each year, around 40,000 children in the UK sustain an acquired brain or neurological injury. The Children’s Neurorehabilitation service (BRILL Team) at Nottingham Children’s Hospital delivers intensive neurorehabilitation and ongoing support for children with brain and spinal injuries.
A service evaluation led by Rachel Keetley – followed by her ARC East Midlands, University of Nottingham, and Health Education England East Midlands funded PhD fellowship – highlighted the long-term rehabilitation needs of these patients, focusing on participation and well-being.
Key impacts
- Increased national awareness: Highlighted the unique long-term needs of children with acquired brain injuries and their families.
- Development of a regional specialist clinic: Established a centre for multi-disciplinary assessment and follow-up.
- Improved patient outcomes: Enhanced health and social care results, preventing poorer outcomes and reducing delays
in diagnosis and treatment. - Optimised care pathways: Streamlined management of conditions and better access to services, leading to higher quality care.
- Policy influence: Contributed to the development of clinical guidelines and policies, facilitating better implementation
in practice.
This work is vital for improving the rehabilitation journey for children with neurological injuries, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care necessary for recovery and development.
