Recommendation 13

We propose that, in line with the introduction of Integrated Care Systems which seek to tackle health inequalities and focus on prevention, the Department ought to bolster the Healthy Child Programme, the programme for prevention and public health of children and young people aged 0–19-year-old and their families. We propose that the Government introduce annual holistic health and wellbeing assessments for every child and young person, using the existing workforce of school nurses, health visitors, as well as those in associated roles such as community paediatrics and primary care. These assessments should monitor a range of physical and mental health markers including, but not limited to, weight and mental wellbeing. They should provide an opportunity to explore the context in which the young person and their family live, how these circumstances can relate to their health. They should aim to engage the wider family (if appropriate, depending on age) to ensure early detection of potential health risks, with signposting to appropriate services if required.