Source · Select Committees · Petitions Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Deferred
Paragraph: 50
It is difficult to see how health visitors will be able to ‘catch-up’ with their...
Recommendation
It is difficult to see how health visitors will be able to ‘catch-up’ with their important contact visits to provide the much-needed support for new parents and to help identify those who are vulnerable and most in need. This risks more vulnerable children and families becoming hidden. The Government should review the provision of health visitor services in light of Covid-19 and consider funding increased numbers of health visitors and other allied professionals to ensure that vulnerable families are The impact of Covid-19 on maternity and parental leave 59 identified and given the support they need.
Government Response Summary
The government states that the allocation of health visitor resources is a matter for local authorities and has provided additional funding to local authorities to address Covid-19 pressures, but does not commit to a government review of provision or increased central funding for health visitors.
Paragraph Reference:
50
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Routine dentistry during COVID-19 requires the correct social distancing measures and personal protective equipment to be in place. That’s why, routine dentistry was suspended with the outbreak of coronavirus. Dental practices are working hard to ensure protective equipment and measures are in place to maintain social distancing measures and safeguard the health and wellbeing of their patients. Practices may not be able to off all treatments initially but will prioritise their patients based upon their needs. Individuals do not need to pay for NHS dental treatment if they are: under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education; pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months; being treated in an NHS hospital and the treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist; receiving low income benefits, or are under 20 and a dependant of someone receiving low income benefits. The impact of Covid-19 on maternity and parental leave: Government Response 13 Low income benefits include: Income Support; Income-related Employment and Support Allowance; Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; Pension Credit Guarantee Credit; Universal Credit (in certain circumstances); Certificates to help with health costs. Individuals can also receive free NHS dental treatment if they are entitled to or named on: a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate; a valid HC2 certificate—which is available for people on a low income. People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help. Access to emergency treatment was available throughout the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic and routine dentistry restarted from 8th June 2020. The current arrangements target support at those who require more regular check- ups, e.g. because of their age or because they are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months, and individuals who might otherwise not be able to afford dental treatment. The Government has no plans to extend the existing charges exemptions at the current time.