Child health strategy to boost health visitor access

The plans also give children's centres a greater role in running more health programmes to help reduce obesity and smoking.
The strategy, produced jointly by the Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Department of Health, sets out what children and families can expect from health services from birth to age 19, but has a particular focus on the early years.
The Family and Parenting Institute, which has been campaigning for a universal health visiting service, said the plan to increase the number of health visitors would help to put an end to a 'postcode lottery' in provision.
Honor Rhodes, director of development at the FPI, said, 'It is totally unacceptable for one parent to receive more support in the early years of their child's life than another, just because of where they live. We are delighted that the Government has recognised the important role they play in helping parents.'
The strategy also includes funding of £340m to support children with disabilities and their families.
Family Nurse Partnerships, which are being piloted, will also be expanded from 30 to 70 areas by 2011, providing intensive support for vulnerable first-time mothers before their child is two years old.
The strategy includes the development and testing of a new antenatal and 'preparation for parenthood' programme, particularly for parents from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Free school meals will also be piloted, and in some areas made available to all primary pupils, with a view to looking at the health and educational benefits of extending them to more pupils.
Children's secretary Ed Balls said, 'With schools, GP practices and hospitals, Sure Start children's centres, the voluntary sector and the Government all playing their part in helping to establish good habits in childhood, this will provide the basis for lifelong health, happiness and well-being for every child in the country.'
Healthy lives, brighter futures - The strategy for children and young people's health is available at www.doh.gov.uk.