Supporting children and young people with diabetes: My journey and passion

I’m Nikki Dawson, a Paediatric Diabetes Specialist Nurse Lead with over 20 years’ experience in the NHS. I also serve as Children and Young People Clinical Lead for Diabetes for NHS England (East of England) and as a Diabetes UK Clinical Champion. My work focuses on supporting children and young people (CYP) with diabetes and the nurses who care for them across healthcare, education, and community settings.

I lead paediatric diabetes services for over 450 children and young people across Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, and Rutland. My roles involve improving transition services, reducing inequalities, and ensuring all CYP have access to diabetes technology and support, regardless of demographics. I have introduced innovative models such as school-based drop-in clinics, creating safe, accessible spaces for young people outside hospital settings.

Nursing is at the heart of everything I do. Nurses are often the constant presence in a child’s diabetes journey, educating, advocating, and empowering families every step of the way. I am passionate about supporting nurses to develop confidence, resilience, and specialist skills, ensuring they can deliver safe, compassionate, and effective care. As a Mental Health First Aider, I provide guidance not only to colleagues but also to patients and their families, helping them manage the emotional aspects of living with diabetes.

Living with a long-term health condition myself, I understand the daily challenges children and families face. This experience shapes my approach to care, allowing me to offer empathy, practical solutions, and reassurance. I strongly believe that well-supported nurses are key to delivering excellent care, and I strive to ensure that nursing teams feel valued, equipped, and confident.

Through NHS England, I work with commissioners, primary care teams, provider trusts, and voluntary sector partners to develop, implement, and evaluate services, share best practice, and reduce variation in care. As a Diabetes UK Clinical Champion, I collaborate nationally to influence policy, support innovation, and strengthen the voice of paediatric diabetes nursing, ensuring nurses have the tools and guidance they need to provide excellent care across all settings.

In April 2026 i will be travelling to Cape Town, South Africa, supporting CYP from the UK and South Africa with type 1 diabetes. We will provide education, peer support, and empowerment to young people in deprived areas, helping them manage their condition confidently and safely.

Outside work, I am a wife and mother of three, a keen reader, and a runner who can often be seen dashing around muddy fields with our family dog, Ernie. I am passionate about nursing, reducing inequalities, and empowering young people to take control of their diabetes journey. By supporting nurses, sharing best practice, and advocating for equitable care, we can make a real difference for children, families, and the nursing profession alike.