What Do Health Visitors Do?

Health visitors are specially trained nurses or midwives who support families with young children to promote health and well-being. They play an important role in early childhood development, offering advice, guidance and practical help to parents and carers. Understanding what health visitors do can help families access the support they need during the early years.

Role and Responsibilities of Health Visitors

Health visitors typically work with families from pregnancy through to when a child starts school. They carry out regular visits to check on the health, development and safety of babies and young children. This includes monitoring growth, vaccinations, feeding and emotional well-being.

They provide tailored advice on a wide range of topics such as breastfeeding, nutrition, sleep routines, behaviour management and parental mental health. Health visitors also identify and support families who may be at risk or facing difficulties, helping to connect them with additional services.

Supporting Families and Communities

Beyond individual visits, health visitors contribute to community health by running parenting groups, immunisation clinics and health promotion programmes. They work closely with other professionals such as GPs, midwives and social workers to provide coordinated care.

When to Contact a Health Visitor

Parents and carers can contact a health visitor for advice on child health concerns, feeding problems, developmental questions or emotional support. Health visitors are also proactive, reaching out to families as part of routine checks.

Summary

Health visitors offer vital support to families with young children, focusing on health, development and well-being. Their role encompasses home visits, advice, safeguarding and community work, helping children get the best start in life.