About the framework
The existing framework reflects advances in paediatric care, while acknowledging the growing role of children and families in decision-making. It emphasises shared decision-making, the child’s best interests and the importance of involving children and young people wherever feasible. It outlines legal and ethical considerations, including parental responsibility, the role of the courts and quality-of-life assessments. It also addresses the needs of children with disabilities and the importance of bereavement support for families.
The framework is a source of information for many areas involved with paediatric care, and has been referred to in judgements outside of the wider paediatric sphere.
See framework on Archives website
Planned update of the framework
Status: Consultation on the scope
Estimated publication: Late 2026
The RCPCH is set up to update the framework to ensure it reflects the latest evidence and clinical practice. From 30 June to 20 August 2025, we are undertaking a formal consultation on the scope, and ask individuals to review and comment. The scope states what the update of the framework will include and will not include.
You can download the scope below and then complete our consultation form.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Guidelines team on guidelines@rcpch.ac.uk and one of our team will be happy to get back to you on this subject.