A summary of parents’ experiences of using the health visiting service in Northamptonshire

Healthwatch Northamptonshire undertook research on parents’ experiences of using the health visiting service in Northamptonshire. They spoke to 221 parents of children aged 0 to 5 years across eight locations in the county during January 2015.

Most parents were positive about the advice and support they received from health visitors, particularly when they had concerns about their child’s health or development. However, many reported inconsistencies in the service they received. Some parents felt there was not enough contact after the early weeks of a child’s life, while others highlighted conflicting advice from health visitors and midwives. The report found significant variation across Northamptonshire in the provision of weaning and dietary advice, with only 44% of parents overall reporting that they had received such support. 

The research also found variation in the support offered to mothers around emotional wellbeing. While most mothers reported being asked how they were feeling after childbirth, this was not consistent across all areas of the county. Healthwatch was concerned that some parents had not seen a health visitor for several years and that relatively few parents appeared to be using child health clinics. The report also noted that many parents attended A&E with their children without first seeking advice from a health visitor. 

Healthwatch Northamptonshire recommended improving consistency across the county, ensuring that all families receive the same level of support and advice, including weaning and dietary guidance and emotional support for new mothers. They also recommended that all parents receive the minimum level of health visitor contact set out in national standards, that the role of health visitors is communicated more clearly, and that commissioners undertake a full review of the service with involvement from local parents.