Our patron HRH Princess Royal shares a message on our 30th anniversary as a Royal College

The College is honoured to have received the warmest congratulations from Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary and a significant milestone in our history.
HRH Princess Royal speaking from podium that reads RCPCH Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, Leading the way in Children's health

On this day exactly 30 years ago, on 23 July 1996, our Royal Charter was granted by Her Majesty the Queen, about four years after members of the British Paediatric Association voted for this. A Royal Charter defines the privileges and purpose of significant organisations who can demonstrate pre-eminence, stability and permanence in their particular field.

HRH Princess Anne writes:

Your commitment to excellence in paediatric care, education and research has helped to shape standards, inform policy and support generations of dedicated professionals working on the front line of child health.

She thanks all who contribute to the work of our College:

Your collective efforts make a meaningful difference to the lives of so many.

As a patron of the College, The Princess Royal has supported our work for many years, attending College events, celebrating our global work in Sierra Leone and welcoming new RCPCH leaders. Most recently, she visited RCPCH headquarters in July 2025 to meet members of our children and young people’s network, RCPCH &Us.

We’re grateful for her continued support, recognition and kind wishes.


View or download the letter below: