FAMILIES with babies born during the pandemic will be boosted with the launch of new health visiting clinics across the county.
Like many services, health visitors had to adapt the way they provide support during the pandemic to protect the health of parents, babies and their staff.
This meant for many families telephone and online support was offered in line with guidance to minimise the risk of transmitting Covid-19.
Now, in line with the Government’s road map out of lockdown the team is preparing to invite families into clinics and Family Hubs once again.
Working on an appointment basis, families of babies born between March 1, 2020 and Dec 31 2020 will be invited to book an appointment to see a health visitor at a local Family Hub or clinic.
The appointments will provide an opportunity for new parents to discuss any concerns they may have about their child’s health and development.
Louise Langston, service manager for the Starting Well Partnership, said: “The last 15 months have been undeniably hard for families, especially those who have had babies during lockdown.
“We want all families to be able to access support and reassurance in a timely manner, and hope the new appointment system will give families an opportunity to discuss any concerns they might have in the safest possible way.”
Slots will be released each Monday for the week ahead and can be booked by calling your local health visiting team.
Families can also access the Telephone Advisory Service (TAS) which is available to parents and carers of children up to the age of 5, to discuss concerns including feeding, toileting and behaviour.
The service is available from Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm on 0300 123 9551.
Visit www.startingwellworcs.nhs.uk for more.
