The RCPCH has launched a new programme and recommendations to support paediatric diabetes services, building on findings from its National Paediatric Diabetes Audit (NPDA).

Its most recent annual report found that children and young people living in more deprived areas continue to have poorer blood glucose control and lower access to diabetes technologies. The programme uses staff training, consultation and evidence-based guidance to identify changes services can make to reduce financial barriers and improve equitable access.

The Poverty Proofing® Paediatric Diabetes National Roll-out report includes recommendations developed with multidisciplinary diabetes teams, such as to:

• support staff to discuss financial circumstances and barriers to accessing care with families;
• improve awareness of and access to travel reimbursement;
• strengthen signposting and referral pathways to financial, welfare and community support;
• reduce unconscious bias and stigma within healthcare services;
• improve support for young people transitioning to adult diabetes services;
• promote equitable access to diabetes care and technology; and
• share good practice across paediatric diabetes services.

The RCPCH says many of the lessons and practical actions identified via the programme are also relevant to other paediatric specialties, and encourages services to download the report and adapt it for their own settings.