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

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

Evidence from paediatricians: online harms are impacting children in hospital clinics - evidence submission

In May 2026, RCPCH responded to a Department for Science, Innovation and Technology call for evidence on 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 child...

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.

News

Colleges engage DHSC on mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse duty

1 May 2026

RCPCH leads Royal College letter to Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Wes Streeting MP regarding measures for a mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse (CSA) duty in England.

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Creating a smokefree generation: Tobacco and Vapes Act

On 29 April 2026, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill received Royal Assent, marking a historic moment for child health and a major step towards creating the first smokefree generation. We explain how College members and staff have worked together to influence this Bill, and what happens next.

Public affairs and campaigning

Public health

Smoking and vaping

Wellbeing for children and young people

Topic page

Strong foundations

The early years of a child’s life provide the foundation for their health, development and long‑term outcomes. Our Strong foundations campaign is calling for strengthened health services that support babies, young children and their families.

News

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.

News

Investing in child health means investing in Scotland's future

20 April 2026

Dr Linsey McVey, RCPCH Trainee Representative for the West of Scotland, speaks about RCPCH Scotland’s manifesto, The Prescription for Change, and outlines why investment in child health must be a priority ahead of the 2026 Holyrood election.

News

Paediatricians urge political parties to put children first ahead of the Senedd election

17 April 2026

170 paediatricians and child health advocates have called on Welsh political party leaders to make the health and wellbeing of babies, children and young people a national priority in the lead up to the Senedd election.