A message from Professor Russell Viner, RCPCH President
...we had to adapt to new challenges, at pace and under extraordinary pressure
Earlier this year, the College produced our normal Annual Review. So far, so good. And yet, between completing our work and sharing it with you, the world changed. What seemed a slow trickle with COVID-19 became a stream which very quickly became a tidal wave and suddenly we had to adapt to new challenges, at pace and under extraordinary pressure.
As we start to restore services, we wanted to take stock. Firstly, to say thank you to all our members; those who supported colleagues in other specialties; those who have had their training disrupted but carried on under immense pressure; those who have reassured and worked tirelessly for children, young people and families; and those who have found new, innovative ways to work and help patients.
We also want to share with you the work the College has been doing to support you on so many levels. Its action on policy and advocacy to keep child health high on the political agenda, using our collective voice to raise what matters and providing guidance for paediatric services on the ground in the COVID-19 response.
As a College, we’ve also had to be agile and think differently across training, exams, courses, our global work and even moving our Annual Conference online. This report sets out the work we have done over a short space of time to remember and reflect on all we have achieved so that we keep the spirit of innovation and action driving us through the coming months and years.
Recovering children’s services will be core to what we do next through what looks like a difficult winter and beyond. We will continue to keep you informed of our plans and encourage you to get involved and support the College in whatever way you can.
Once again, my thanks to all of you and to the staff at the College for the positive difference you’re making on child health in what has been an extremely challenging period.