Health policy

News

Paediatricians welcome the expansion of Martha’s Rule

4 September 2025

Martha’s Rule is the right for patients, families and carers to request a rapid review if they are worried that their or their loved one’s condition is getting worse and their concerns are not being responded to.

News

RCPCH responds to NSPCC polling data on physical punishment

21 August 2025

New NSPCC polling reveals four out of five parents with a child under 18 in England (81%) believe it’s unacceptable for adults to use physical punishment on their child, with a similar number of young adults (82%) in agreement.

News

Groundhog or Marmot? Why I back Wales as the world's first Marmot Nation

20 August 2025

Wales is becoming the world's first 'Marmot Nation'. Can this help lift our healthcare system out of 'Groundhog Day' and bring real change to child health? Dr Nick Wilkinson, Officer for Wales, takes a look.

News

RCPCH responds to GMC’s workplace experiences 2025 report

8 August 2025

The General Medical Council has published ‘The state of medical education and practice in the UK Workplace experiences 2025’ report.

Resource

Healthy eating and drinking in maintained schools in Wales - consultation response

In July 2025, we responded to a Welsh Government consultation on proposals to update standards related to what food and drinks can be provided in schools in Wales, guidance for caterers and guidance for schools and local authorities on responsibilities for promoting healthy eating and drinking.

Governance and regulation

Health policy

News

Gaza update, looking back and HRH visit - President's update

25 July 2025

In this issue we provide a new Gaza update, look back on our impact throughout 2024 & reflect on a Royal visit commemorating RCPCH &Us over the last 10 years.

News

More children ill from poverty – bleak paediatricians survey on anniversary of Child Poverty Taskforce

17 July 2025

A survey of paediatricians – published today on the one-year anniversary of government’s Child Poverty Taskforce – reveals that children are experiencing more severe health issues due to poverty, placing a system already stretched thin under much more considerable strain as well as affecting health ...

Resource

Minimum Unit Pricing in Wales - consultation response

In April 2025, we responded to the Senedd Health and Social Care Committee's call for evidence as part of its inquiry into Minimum Unit Pricing in Wales.

Health policy

Society

News

Shaping child health: your voice, our action – President’s update

14 July 2025

From influencing the 10 Year Health Plan to launching new leadership programmes and research initiatives, this month’s update highlights how new insights are driving change across the UK and beyond.

News

RCPCH welcomes new Best Start in Life strategy and funding

10 July 2025

The new strategy aims to rebuild early childhood support services in England and comes alongside plan for 1000 Best Start Family Hubs to be rolled out across the country.