Overview

• The number of children waiting for community health services in England has surged to 314,432 as of March 2025, up from 272,625 a year earlier.
• Long delays are disproportionately affecting children, with 22% waiting over a year for care compared to just 1.3% of adults.
• Experts warn extended waits are causing irreparable harm, including delayed school starts, limited social interaction, and increased mental health risks.
• The RCPCH recommends implementing an 18-week maximum wait time target, addressing funding gaps, and expanding the paediatric workforce.
• The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledges the crisis, pledging continued efforts to shift care into communities but emphasizes that progress will take time.