Annette Brooke MP welcomes review on health visitor role

2.07.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 19th Jun 2007

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole today welcomed the review of the role of health visitors, saying:

"What is needed is an enhanced role, and not one that is diminished in any way in the vital role of supporting parents and families"

Annette Brooke MP, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Children, Young People & Families stated;

"There will be a case for some changes in the 21st Century, for example, as identified in the Report, a change from 'working largely with mothers' to 'engaging fathers as well', and clearly a preventative approach is important.

"It is vital to give more help and support to vulnerable families but much more detail is required on what will be the actual 'offer to all families".

This document provides a basis for more consultation and this is much needed if the future is to be an enhanced service and not provide excuses for cost-cutting in the future.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1 - A recent survey of Primary Care Trusts found a varying number of health visitors up and down the country - training was cut by 40% last year.

2 - In a recent YouGov survey for the Family and parenting Institute, 76% of parents said they wanted parenting support and advice on their child's health and development from a trained health visitor with up to date knowledge and 83% wanted that support in the home.

2 - There is little mention in the Review of practicalities such as supporting mothers to breastfeed or helping families where there is domestic violence. The review states that parents will have 'personalised access' to the Child Health Promotion Programme. What will this actually mean for real parents on the ground?