Specialist roles have been developed to provide holistic care to children and young people with cancer, one of which is the advanced clinical practitioner (ACP) in paediatric oncology and haematology. A survey showed that paediatric oncology and haematology ACPs in the UK work in a wide variety of roles and that their numbers vary greatly between treatment centres. The survey also confirmed the need for a national standardised framework delineating the knowledge, skills and expertise required of ACPs working in paediatric oncology and haematology.

This article describes the development of a capability document to support and standardise advanced practice in paediatric oncology and haematology. The document reflects the advanced level of critical thinking, autonomy and decision-making required of ACPs and has been endorsed by the Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group and by the Royal College of Nursing. It is hoped that it will support ACPs to consistently deliver high-quality, safe care for the benefit of children and young people with cancer and their families.