President's update

Professor Steve Turner is RCPCH President, and shares regular updates with members by email and on this website.

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Learning from devolution - President's update

28 July 2026

Steve reflects on how the four UK nations have delivered healthcare for their populations since devolution happened in 1999, the challenges in comparison of outcomes, and what this has taught us.

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A summer to reflect on our direction of travel - President's update

9 July 2026

Officers and senior staff are reflecting on the College strategy, as we look forward to publishing our next State of Child Health report. Steve also shares our podcast on the assessment review and our response to the Ockenden report, and celebrates our newest Members and Fellows.

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Challenges and opportunities in the NHS – President’s update

18 June 2026

Steve explains how clinical leadership must be central in local and national decision-making across the NHS. He also updates on the Health Bill in England, the MenB vaccine for young people, our response to the forthcoming social media ban for children and our latest podcasts.

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Supporting children in a changing world – President’s update

2 June 2026

Child health has changed over the years, and today we have new priorities in public health, such as screen time, maternal and child vaccination, vaping and school attendance. Steve signposts to resources to help you tactfully support families on these issues.

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How you can shape the future of child's health - President's Update

22 May 2026

In this President's Update, Steve reflects on our annual Conference and anniversary celebrations. Plus, he introduces our new Paediatric Influencing Network and Strong Foundations campaign.

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Advocating for a better future for every child – President’s update

7 May 2026

Steve reflects on the journey to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill receiving Royal Assent, which marks a landmark step towards a smokefree generation. Plus, you can still sign up for next week's conference, virtually or in-person.

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Towards our vision of a world where every child is healthy and well - President's update

20 April 2026

In this President's update, Steve discusses the Global team's programmes to improve child health worldwide and welcomes our two new Vice Presidents.

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How you can help shape the sector - President's update

9 April 2026

Steve reflects on the growing national conversation surrounding children's digital lives in this blog, and invites members to share their views about online harms. Plus a reminder to complete our membership survey.

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Turning policy into practice - President's update

25 March 2026

Health systems across the world are under growing pressure as patterns of illness shift, particularly with rising non-communicable diseases and mental health needs. Steve notes that the Westminster government’s new framework sets out how care can move closer to home, and welcomes the recognition of ...

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Be curious about school attendance - President's update

10 March 2026

Understanding and addressing school attendance is fast becoming a priority for our members and wider society, and Steve introduces our new position statement with both evidence and practical advice for paediatricians. He also shares updates on our assessment review and policy work across the UK.