Public affairs and campaigning

Using members' on-the-ground experience, we engage with Government, MPs, Peers, their staff, the civil service and wider stakeholders to make the case for policies that will improve children and young people's health outcomes

News

Paediatricians fear that children in Wales may become ‘unhealthiest generation in decades’.

9 September 2026

New data analysis shows children’s health in Wales is declining, with poorer outcomes in oral health, asthma and mental health, alongside some of the worst obesity rates in the UK.

News

Children’s health in Northern Ireland in ‘shocking decline’ warn paediatricians

7 September 2026

Children in Northern Ireland are experiencing worsening outcomes in areas such as obesity, mental health, asthma and even infant mortality.

Document

Every child thriving: Advancing child health in Northern Ireland - 2027 election manifesto

Ahead of the 2027 elections in Northern Ireland, our manifesto sets out a clear and achievable roadmap for the next Executive to advance child health. With insights from both paediatricians and children and young people, we call for investment in the workforce, data, child health services and preven...

Data

Public affairs and campaigning

Public health

Service design

Workforce

News

Collaborative Healthcare in England, one year on...

18 August 2026

Last year, we reported on long waiting times for community child health services. By March 2027, NHS England aims that at least 78% of community health service activity occur within 18 weeks, but the data shows we still have a long way to go.

News

RCPCH responds to Children's Commissioner (England) mental health report

30 June 2026

On Monday 29 June, the Children's Commissioner for England published her fifth annual report on children's mental health services.

News

RCPCH responds to UK government ban on social media for under 16s

15 June 2026

The UK government has announced new rules to protect children online, including a social media ban for under 16s, restrictions on live streaming and greater restrictions for under 18s on engaging with strangers online.

News

RCPCH responds Lord Mann’s review into antisemitism and other forms of racism in the NHS

4 June 2026

On Thursday 4 July, Lord Mann published a government commissioned review into antisemitism and other forms racism in the NHS.

News

Influencing the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act: podcast

3 June 2026

How does the College use both paediatric and policy expertise to help shape legislation affecting children and young people? Professor Andrew Rowland, Officer for Child Protection (pictured), talks about our work with colleagues from RCPCH and NSPCC.

Resource

Online harms are impacting children in hospital clinics - evidence submission from paediatricians, children and young people

In May 2026, RCPCH responded to a Department for Science, Innovation and Technology call for evidence, Growing up in the online world: a national consultation. The evidence gathered will be considered by the UK government to help decide their next steps on introducing greater protections for childre...

Public affairs and campaigning

Wellbeing for children and young people

News

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.