Well, the good news is that he got an NHS dermatology appointment for last week in March, just as the clinics were opening, as far as I understand. So we cancelled the private appointment and took the NHS one approximately 2 weeks later.
He easily got prescribed what I had hoped he would get, Isotretinoin (was Roaccutane). I was just so relieved. So is he of course, but they are taking a cautions approach, ie continuing the current (useless) medication, and starting on a low Isotretinoin, to built it up gradually. (If it were for me, I'd just wolf a bigger dose, but obviously being sensible as the adult here!).
He has also had blood tests, the first one indicated some liver concern, he had another one at the weekend Saturday (was surprised an NHS blood clinic would be open on a Saturday. Maybe getting backlog sorted out?). No follow up phone call, so assuming all well on that front.
Again I can't say how relieved I am that we have moved this on a bit, just hoping he will respond fully. I do feel a bit let down for him, in terms of getting an earlier referral, as it only took one look at his back for then to say put your top back on son, here's the stronger stuff! (exaggerating, only slightly though!)
I don't think severe acne is taken seriously enough as an ailment.