Health Visiting

A health visitor's role is a varied one and mainly involves working with families, young people and the elderly. The main focus of our work is to promote the health of the whole community by helping people stay healthy and avoid illness. This includes physical, mental and social well being - our aim to help people help themselves.

All families with a child under 5 have a named health visitor who will offer help and advice on the following:

  • Their child's growth & development
  • Common infections and skin problems in childhood
  • Behaviour difficulties including: sleeping, eating, potty training, temper tantrums and teething
  • Breastfeeding, weaning, healthy eating, hygiene, safety and exercise
  • Postnatal depression, bereavement and violence in the family
  • Working in partnership with families to tailor health plans to their needs
  • Immunisation programmes
  • Drop in Baby Clinics and Support Groups

Family Support

We also offer support to the whole family including:

  • Advice on finding employment and benefit rights information
  • Support and reassurance for new fathers about their role
  • Give information on local support networks including ante-natal classes, leisure activities, mother and toddler groups etc
  • Advice on options for childcare available locally
  • Provide support for single parents and parents with learning difficulties
  • Referrals to education programmes or support groups and other support services if required
  • Advocate on your behalf with a range of other agencies including the local authority, education services, voluntary and charitable organisations

How to find us

If you need to speak to your Health Visitor, they can be contacted via the Health Centres listed below:

Batley Health Centre 01924 351573

Cleckheaton Health Centre 01924 351536

Dewsbury Health Centre 01924 351506

Golcar Clinic 01484 347875

Mill Hill Health Centre 01484 347835

Princess Royal Health Centre 01484 344321

The Valleys 01484 347876

Shepley Health Visitors 01484 605634

Skelmanthorpe Health Visitors 01484 347794

Useful links

Birth to Five Book - This book gives you information on becoming a parent, taking care of yourself and your child, and how to find practical help and support.

Immunisations - The NHS guide to vaccinations for you and your family.

Safety/Accident Prevention - Advice, information and resources for safety practitioners, parents, teachers and other professionals who work with children about child safety on the road, in the home and at play.

Toilet Training - You'll find potty training tips on each potty training step along the way; whatever potty training problem you might encounter ERIC offers ways to overcome them.