Sharing the experiences of eczema patients with dermatology nurses

National Eczema Society took centre stage at the British Dermatological Nursing Group's Atopic Eczema Masterclass in Birmingham on 24 March, bringing the patient voice directly to an audience of specialist dermatology nurses from across the country.

The annual event provides a forum for dermatology nursing professionals to share clinical developments and best practice in eczema care. This year, the Society was invited to contribute as a patient organisation which was a great opportunity to ensure that the realities of living with atopic eczema shape the conversations happening at a clinical level.

Kym Dawson opened proceedings on behalf of the Society by sharing her personal eczema journey — a candid and moving account that drew on years of navigating diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional toll of a chronic skin condition. Her contribution set the tone for a session grounded in lived experience.

Andrew Proctor, Chief Executive of National Eczema Society, outlined the organisation's current campaigning priorities. Central to these are two long-standing gaps in provision for adults with atopic eczema: the absence of dedicated NICE quality guidelines, and ongoing barriers to accessing emollients on NHS prescription. Both issues have a direct impact on the standard of care patients receive, and the Society is actively pressing for change on both fronts.

Professor Celia Moss, Trustee of National Eczema Society and a leading figure in paediatric dermatology, also addressed the audience on the subject of topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), a contested and often distressing condition reported by some patients following prolonged steroid use. Professor Moss outlined the current state of evidence, acknowledging what remains unknown, and made the case for urgent, rigorous research to better understand and support those affected.

The event also gave the Society the chance to hear directly from nursing professionals about the progress being made across the dermatology community to improve patient outcomes.