South Warwickshire Guidance 
Health Visiting Service
Supporting you and your child in the early years
The first few years of your child’s life are full of change, learning and growth – for both you and your little one. Our Health Visiting service is here to support you through it all
We work with families across Warwickshire to improve the health and wellbeing of children under five, helping you feel confident and supported as your child grows
Our health visitors are qualified nurses or midwives with specialist training in child and family health. They offer practical advice, reassurance and guidance to help you give your baby or young child the best possible start in life
How we can help
Your health visitor will support you from pregnancy through to when your child starts school. They can offer help and advice on:
- Feeding and nutrition, including breastfeeding and weaning
- Sleep, behaviour and child development
- Emotional wellbeing for parents and carers
- Keeping your child safe and healthy
- Connecting you to local services, groups and support networks
We believe every family’s journey is unique. Whether you need a quick chat, regular contact or extra support, we’ll work with you to find what’s right for you and your child
You can meet your health visitor in your home, at a Family Hub, or at a local clinic – wherever you feel most comfortable
Find a Family Hub or clinic here
ChatHealth
We also offer ChatHealth – a text messaging advice service where you can contact our Health Visiting team by text on 07520615293 and they’ll respond within 24 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access this service?
We provide services to children and young people from birth to 19 years of age (25 with SEND). Children under five will be supported by our team of Health Visitors. Families do not have to be referred into the service as we are informed about all families with young children who are born or move into the area – so we will get in touch with you. You can request to talk to a health visitor by calling our Single Point of Access (SPA) on 0300 247 0072 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or email wcfw.contact@hcrgcaregroup.com
ChatHealth Information
We also offer ChatHealth – a text messaging advice service where you can contact our Health Visiting team by text on 07520615293 and they’ll respond within 24 hours
When will I be seen?
Health Visitors are there to help and support you and your family with any needs that are impacting upon your health and wellbeing. The six contacts available to all families are:
- An antenatal contact to meet with you (and your partner) between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy
- A home visit to complete the new birth visit when your baby is between 10 and 14 days old
- A contact when your baby is between 6 and 8 weeks of age
- A contact before your baby is 1 (usually between 9 and 11 months)
- A contact when your child is between 2-3 years old
Who might my child and I see?
Health Visitors
All health visitors are qualified nurses or midwives and have specialist training to be able to provide the best support to families with young children. Health visitors are also able to signpost families to other services as your family needs. They will work in partnership with you and your family to decide on the level of support you may require. They also work closely with midwives, practices nurses and GPs and may call on other professionals too
Health visitors are there to help and support you and your family with any concerns that you have.
Specialist Community Public Health Nurse
Specialist nurses work alongside Health Visitors, supporting the health needs of families, children and young people.
Child and Family Wellbeing Practitioners (CFWPs)
CFWPs work alongside Health Visitors, offering advice and support around subjects such as: behaviour, sleep, toileting, play and development.
What can I talk to my Health Visitor about?
With your Health Visitor, you are able to share thoughts, feelings and experiences about being a parent health Visitors have the professional experience to support you through any worries you may have. At the hubs, you can also chat with other parents in a relaxed play environment for your baby. The Health Visiting Team may be able to support you:
- Infant feeding and introducing family foods
- Understanding your baby’s behaviour and how they are developing
- Adjusting to becoming a parent
- Family life and difficulties such as postnatal depression
- Healthy choices such as lifestyle, eating or immunisations
- Home safety, discussing housing concerns, domestic abuse or child abuse
We work with other professionals and practitioners to support you getting additional expert help if you need it. We can also signpost you to take full advantage of the range of resources that are available to you locally so you can gain support within your own community.
We also work closely with local Children and Family Centres to promote family activities which help build a strong bond with your child. Children’s Centres offer a range of services, advice and support for Parents and Carers
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Coventry
Rugby & South Warwickshire
North Warwickshire
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