Appointments are sent out automatically by the local health authority for routine child health checks.
The first will be with a GP when your baby is around 8 weeks old. You will be sent information about this and invited to an appointment for a post natal check combined with an 8 week developmental check.
Please do not bring ill children to this clinic.
You will also be offered routine health reviews for your child, with your Health Visitor, at 6-8 weeks, 8-12 months and 2-2½ years old.
Please ensure you attend these appointments to ensure your child is immunised and protected.
Child immunisations
Immunisations are given by our Practice Nurses in accordance with the NHS vaccine schedule.
Different vaccines are given at different ages to protect you and your child. Find out when these vaccinations are offered, and when and where they’ll be given:
Health Visitors are trained Nurses with extra training and qualifications in child health. They are a fantastic source of information about child development and health, parenting strategies, breastfeeding, nutrition and community support. They also offer help with social, emotional and environmental issues that affect families.
Telling your GP and/or Midwife promptly will help to make sure you receive maternity healthcare that takes into account all your health needs and preferences. You can book an appointment with your GP or directly with your Midwife as soon as you know that you’re pregnant.
It’s best to see them as early as possible to obtain the information you need to have a healthy pregnancy, and because some tests, such as screening for sickle cell and thalassaemia should be done before you’re 10 weeks’ pregnant.
Midwifes
The Midwife works with the Doctor to give care to women having a baby, both before birth and for ten days after the baby is delivered. Antenatal appointments are now generally provided by the Midwife at the Hospital or satellite clinic. For further information please contact your Practice.
The role of the midwife:
A Midwife is a qualified nurse who has undertaken further training to provide and promote normal midwifery.
They help you to prepare for motherhood and promote good health for yourself and your baby by advising on the effects of drinking, smoking and good diet whilst you are pregnant.
The Midwife guides you through your pregnancy and endeavours to detect any problems and make relevant referrals if necessary.
Healthy Start
Healthy Start is a government scheme that aims to improve the health of pregnant women and mothers on benefits or low incomes, all pregnant women under 18 years of age and children who are under 5 years of age. Families who are supported by the scheme receive vouchers to spend on milk (including infant formula), fresh fruit and vegetables.
When you first learn that you’re pregnant, get in touch with a Midwife or GP as soon as possible. Ideally this should be by 10 weeks of your pregnancy. Telling your GP and/or Midwife promptly will help to make sure you receive maternity healthcare that takes into account all your health needs and preferences.
