RCOG/FSRH/BSACP Response to Safeguard Concerns in Young People

27 July 2021

The Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) and the British Society of Abortion Care Providers (BSACP) are disappointed to learn that a group called the “NNDHP – National Network of Designated Health Professionals” have written to all Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) to raise concerns about the safeguarding of young people who need abortion care. Their briefing is not in accordance with the guidance of many national authorities.  

As a result, healthcare providers may hear from their local CCGs with concerns about safeguarding practices in abortion services, and may even face demands that policies are introduced that go against national guidance and could further stigmatise abortion care. Clearly none of us would be willing to consider change that could increase the risk of harm for young or vulnerable people, or that would discriminate against these groups and deny them access to best-practice care.  

The RCOG, FSRH and BSACP have sent a response to CCGs, which is included below and which may be freely shared with any concerned parties. This includes a series of selective abstracts from a wide range of organisations (including RCPCH, RCOG, RCGP, FSRH, NICE, BSACP, GMC, NHSE, NSPCC) as well as some peer-reviewed papers which support the delivery of safeguarding via both remote and in-person assessments, along with some useful tips and guidance.  

RCOG – FSRH – BSACP letter to CCGs on safeguarding young people in response to NNDHP 27 July 2021

Joanne Fletcher and Jonathan Lord (BSACP Co-Chairs)