A UK-wide audit of the treatment of children with epilepsy shows that standards of care vary widely throughout the country.

The Epilepsy 12 report, led by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, shows that only 46% of children saw a specialist epilepsy nurse – against a recommendation that all children should have access to one.

In addition, 40% of youngsters did not see a paediatric neurologist where required, while 35% did not have a complete first assessment on diagnosis.

The study showed 79% of young sufferers saw a paediatrician with specialist training.

Paediatrician Dr Colin Dunkley said: "We've seen marked steps forward in epilepsy care for children in recent years; the majority of children are now being seen by paediatricians with expertise and many are getting detailed diagnoses and being prescribed the most appropriate medicines first time.

"But there are certain areas that need to be improved if we're to give children and young people the best possible medical treatment and ongoing care to help manage their epilepsy and maximise their learning and quality of life."