Liverpool City Council has introduced a fresh approach to Public Health Nursing, aiming to provide stronger and more accessible support for families from pregnancy through school years and into parenthood to enhance long-term outcomes for all residents. Residents can expect to see improvements in how the service is delivered, including the establishment of a single point of contact for advice and support, along with a focus on delivering services directly within local communities.
Although Health Visiting and School Health teams will continue to support families across the city, there will be a renewed emphasis on reaching those who require the most assistance. The updated approach will also offer additional support for mental health and overall well-being. Recognizing the crucial nature of a child’s early years on their development, health, and future opportunities, the new enhanced service aims to play a vital role in supporting child development, guiding parents, and ensuring children and young people receive the necessary help to lead healthy lives.
In 2024, Liverpool City Council reiterated its commitment to enhancing and integrating family services through an official open procurement process, resulting in a new contract being awarded for the delivery of public health services for children, young people, and families. Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust was chosen to continue providing these services, securing their provision for the next five years. The renewed contract places a greater emphasis on integration, closer collaboration with communities, and early intervention and prevention strategies.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing, and Culture, expressed his enthusiasm for the new approach, emphasizing the importance of delivering accessible and integrated services to support families effectively. Prof. Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health, highlighted the significant impact the service will have in ensuring the healthiest generation of children by providing parents with the necessary support for their baby’s development. Trish Bennett, Chief Executive of Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, discussed the partnership with Liverpool City Council to develop a new way of supporting local families, emphasizing a focus on collaboration to provide the best support at the right time and place
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