University of Bristol’s Online Lichen Sclerosus Guide Wins National Award for Empowering Patients and Improving Communication

[L to R] Rheanne Leatherland (Research Assistant at the University of Nottingham), Zoe Breen (patient representative), Dr Sophie Rees (Research Fellow in Qualitative Research at the University of Bristol) and Dr Rosalind Simpson (Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham and Consultant Dermatologist at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust) with their 2025 PEN Award
Image credit: University of Bristol

(PRESS RELEASE) BRISTOL, 14-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — An innovative online guide designed to support people living with vulval lichen sclerosus (LS) has received national recognition, winning first place in the Communicating Effectively with Patients and Families category at the 2025 Picker Experience Network (PEN) Awards. Developed collaboratively by people with LS and healthcare experts from the University of Bristol, University of Nottingham, East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, the Lichen Sclerosus Guide has already reached over 23,000 users across more than 50 countries since its launch earlier this year.

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that can affect anyone but most commonly impacts women or those assigned female at birth, often involving the vulval area. Despite its prevalence, awareness of LS remains limited—even among healthcare professionals—making accessible, evidence-based information essential. The guide addresses this gap by offering practical support on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, alongside educational videos on vulval anatomy, self-examination, and correct treatment application.

Integrated into NHS ‘Advice and Guidance’ templates and featured on the NHS Conditions A–Z website, the resource also includes a downloadable treatment plan now widely adopted in NHS clinics. The Picker judging panel commended the guide for its inclusive and evidence-based approach, noting that it “empowers patients, supports clinicians and bridges gaps in care, making it a model for effective communication and partnership in healthcare.”

Dr Sophie Rees, Research Fellow in Qualitative Research at Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences and one of the guide’s authors, said: “We’re delighted to have received this award. The LS Guide tackles a poorly understood and stigmatised condition and gives patients the knowledge and confidence to manage their health. Over 80% of users say they feel more confident in managing their condition since using the guide.”

Dr Caroline Owen, Consultant Dermatologist at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust and co-author of the guide, highlighted the positive feedback from users: “Vulval LS can be very isolating, as many people feel embarrassed to discuss their symptoms. Patients have told us the guide has been both supportive and reassuring, especially with its clear videos and treatment templates.”

The research team is now extending their work to explore how LS affects children and young people, aiming to develop additional support through future updates to the guide.

Media contact:
Email: press-office@bristol.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)117 428 2489

SOURCE: University of Bristol