Discover our efforts in the RCPCH Global update 2024-26, learn about the 10 Year Health Plan, tackling childhood obesity in Wales, and addressing child poverty and health inequalities across the UK. Join us at the RCPCH Conference 2025 to shape the future of child health. Also, how you can be part of our re-shaping of the RCPCH website.
We had our most recent Council last fortnight, and one of the more sobering items on the agenda was remembering members who have died recently. As we progress through our careers, I think we have all met someone who has influenced and inspired us; and since these role models are usually considerably older than us, they retire, and we move on along on the rollercoaster of life and don’t think about them.
Until we hear the sad news of their passing.
Most recently we heard that Dr Jean Bowyer had died, aged 84. I did not have the pleasure of meeting Jean, but Camilla (Kingdon) and others who knew Jean well have written a tribute to Jean. It is sad when a mentor and friend dies, but it is important to remember them and their contribution. I am very grateful to members for letting the college Membership team know when they hear that a member has died.
Jean was clearly very passionate about, and influential in, the College’s Global work. She was a longstanding and stalwart voice for child health around the world, working with and through the RCPCH. The College’s current strategy has “International Impact” as one of its four goals. Our international reach can be considered as two separate themes: examinations and training; and global humanitarian programmes. Our theory exams (for MRCPCH or Diploma of Child Health) are sat in up to 17 countries, and the MRCPCH Clinical exam in 13. Our College global teams work with government and non-governmental, research and clinical paediatric partners in Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, South Africa, Myanmar, Nepal, India, Pakistan and Lebanon. Have a look at the very readable RCPCH Global update 2024-26 to better understand what your College is achieving. Our global work is only made possible by lots of hard work by local members and the college Global and Examination teams. Many thanks to you all.
#WDYCD4Y - What Does Your College Do for You: Bitesize learning
Did you know you can now access a range of learning resources you can complete in under 20 minutes? These are called ‘bitesize learning’ and it’s on our RCPCH Learning site. It’s a growing area, but you can see our resource highlights on topics like measles, fever and educational supervision, plus a micro eLearning on cleft palate - with much more in the planning stages!
An update on the 10 Year Health Plan
Your College continues to actively engage with the Department of Health and Social Care’s 10 Year Health Plan in England. The policy and public affairs teams have been busy meeting government officials to make the case for children to be included proportionately. Another round of regional events is kicking off this month, and if you’re invited to one, we’d encourage you to go along and represent paediatrics. The RCPCH health policy team has developed comprehensive resources to help you engage with the Plan. These include policy briefings, evidence-based recommendations and practical guides on each of the “three shifts” and how to make them work for children. You can also still submit your ideas directly to the Change NHS Portal – get your thinking caps on!
Tackling childhood obesity in Wales
Our Deputy Officer in Wales, Dr Dana Beasley gave evidence to the Members of the Senedd on childhood obesity and highlighted the crucial need for coordinated government action. The full evidence session can be found here (from 00:02:35) Great work, Dana!
The Committee also touched on the introduction of the Food (Promotion and Presentation) (Wales) Regulations 2025. Last week we saw Welsh government announce they will shift the balance of promotions away from less healthy foods and towards helping to make healthier products more available, accessible and visible, which is extremely welcome and follows our key calls.
Addressing child poverty and health inequalities across the UK: insights from recent reports
Your College have recently responded to several significant reports highlighting child poverty and health issues in the UK. The Children in Wales report on the 8th Annual Child and Family Poverty Surveys 2024 reveals the severe impact of poverty on children's mental health and wellbeing. The survey found that many children feel anxious, isolated, and ashamed due to their financial circumstances. Practitioners noted worsening poverty conditions, citing poor mental health, rising living costs, and lack of support as key issues.
In Scotland, the Food Standards Scotland survey on children's dietary habits shows that most children exceed recommended limits for energy density and free sugars while lacking essential nutrients. The survey highlights significant health inequalities, with children in deprived areas facing the highest levels of food insecurity. RCPCH emphasises the need for a national priority on child health, advocating for access to healthy, affordable food and adequate exercise.
Finally, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's UK Poverty 2025 report paints a grim picture of persistent poverty, with 3 in 10 children living in poverty. The report underscores the profound effects of poverty on children's health, including physical and mental health issues. RCPCH calls for urgent government action to address child poverty and safeguard children's futures.
Shaping the future of child health: join us at RCPCH Conference 2025
RCPCH Conference 2025 is just six weeks away, and excitement is building! I am looking forward to seeing many of you in Glasgow from March 26-28. This year’s event is on track to be one of our most attended yet.
We are thrilled to feature an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers. Dr Chris van Tulleken will kick off the conference with insights on the impact of ultra-processed foods on children's health. His engaging and thought-provoking presentation is sure to spark important conversations. Professor Monica Lakhanpaul will delve into the long-term effects of COVID-19 on children's health, sharing her extensive research and practical strategies to support recovery and resilience. Her expertise will provide valuable perspectives for all attendees. Dr Peter Lachman, a renowned expert in patient safety, will discuss innovative approaches to improving safety in paediatric care. His session promises to be both informative and inspiring, offering actionable insights to enhance clinical practice.
In addition to these and more keynote sessions, the conference will feature a variety of workshops, specialty sessions and networking opportunities. Our Conference dinner on the Thursday evening promises to be a fantastic evening, with Scotland’s famous ‘rock ceilidh’ band in tow! You can see the full programme here. Whether you attend in person or virtually, you'll have access to cutting-edge research, best practices, and the chance to connect with many delegates from around the world. I hope to see you there.
Best wishes,
Steve
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