The role of the National Clinical Director for children, young people and maternity

The Role of the National Clinical Director for Children, Young People and Maternity for England is described and is compared with the role of the Children's Commissioner. The policy context for children, in particular the National Service Framework, is explained, with an emphasis on key health care priorities and progress to date in each area. Newer challenges in children's health, including obesity and the ongoing importance of inequalities, are emphasised, illustrated by infant mortality and childhood accidents, with longstanding unaddressed aspects of children's health care including disability, adolescence and transitions highlighted. Levers for change to improve outcomes for children remain critical to success for the future.