Opinion

In my view - Children in care need more help

SAPHNA, the School and Public Health Nurses Association, welcomes the Government's White Paper Care Matters, and recognises it as a valuable vehicle for improving the poor outcomes, particularly in relation to health, of looked-after children and young people.

We applaud the emphasis placed on 'holistic' health and the promotion and inspection of co-operation, joint strategic planning and commissioning and shared responsibility in responding to health needs. The provision of extra resources, increased powers and the recognition of the contribution of designated health nurses and doctors will go some way to further develop successful work with vulnerable children.

However, we are disappointed that these roles were not further strengthened. It is also essential that primary care services such as health visiting, community paediatrics and school nursing are given sufficient resources to conduct thorough health needs assessments and respond to identified health needs.

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