Health Visiting

Health Visiting

Every family has a named Health Visitor.  All families are assessed by the Health Visitor by 16 weeks post birth.  This informs the plan drawn up for and with the family, based on need.  All families are offered postnatal support, health promotion and a core health visiting service, which includes developmental assessments and immunisations.

Health Visitors are Specialist Nurse Practitioners who work with children (0-5yrs) and families.  To improve the physical, mental, emotional and social health and wellbeing of the population, preventing disease and reducing inequalities in health.

Some examples of health promotion include;

• Promote early play and communication - the Play at Home books are distributed by the Health Visitors within the first few weeks of the baby's life and referred to throughout subsequent visits.  Effective communication and play is also offered through parenting programmes offered by the Health Visitors at home or within group setting.
• Baby Massage - Health Visitors offer baby massage to promote parent/child interaction and early communication.
• infant feeding advice, breastfeeding support and weaning advice is also available.