Public health

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Outbreak of meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia)

This briefing page has been prepared using information made available by the UK Health Security Agency. We will keep this page up to date in line with the latest government information as it emerges.

Health policy

Public health

News

RCPCH responds to Scottish Child Poverty Strategy

13 March 2026

The Scottish Government has published their third child poverty delivery plan outlining action for the period 2026 to 2031.

News

Children’s doctors act on persistent school absences

4 March 2026

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) have outlined the role of doctors in supporting children’s school attendance.

News

Seeing the rare: why surveillance matters

27 February 2026

Each year on the last day of February, Rare Disease Day shines a light on conditions that affect millions worldwide; conditions that most doctors may never encounter. For many families, rarity can mean long diagnostic journeys and uncertainty.

News

Children’s community health services in the news

26 January 2026

BBC News reports that thousands of children facing 'catastrophic' waits for NHS community care.

News

25,000 members and growing: opportunities and what’s next - President's Update

26 January 2026

In this update, RCPCH President, Steve Turner, brings together the latest news, opportunities and developments shaped by and for RCPCH members.

News

RCPCH welcomes Health and Social Care Committee’s report on early years

22 January 2026

The cross-party Committee’s report focuses on the first 1,000 days of life, from conception to age two.

News

RCPCH update on screen time and online harms

19 January 2026

RCPCH President, Professor Steve Turner, has joined leading doctors in a letter to government as concerns of the impact on children and young people's physical and mental health both from excessive screen time as well as exposure to harmful online content grow.

News

RCPCH responds to Scottish Budget 2026-27

14 January 2026

The Scottish Government has published their budget for 2026-27.

News

Welcoming in the new year - President's update

12 January 2026

Steve reflects on the challenges and opportunities facing child health at the start of the new year, from winter pressures to progress in vaccination and public health. He also highlights the importance of clinical leadership, opportunities to get involved and celebrate our members as the College ma...