LOCAL Health Visitor Jeanette Taylor is urging parents and families around West Essex to get in touch if they need support, despite the country entering its second lockdown. Family Hubs run by Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service – such as Harlow’s Treehouse, Epping Forest’s Brambles and Uttlesford’s Sprangles – remain open and safe in line with Government guidelines.

Jeanette, from Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service, said: “It has been very difficult for people through the pandemic, but now is the right time for families and children to return to our COVID-secure family hubs and delivery sites – we promise you a warm welcome.”

The NHS service, which is delivered by Virgin Care in partnership with children’s charity Barnardo’s, has continued operating throughout the pandemic by visiting families in their homes and offering many flexible virtual consultations.

Jeanette added: “Feelings of loneliness, helplessness and isolation are common for new parents or those expecting a baby – but are probably even more challenging during the pandemic as there’s been less face-to-face contact in everyone’s lives.

“There’s also less opportunity to speak out about domestic abuse – people aren’t leaving their homes as much and may be within hearing-distance of someone else indoors. But when you visit us, you have an opportunity to speak with us privately about domestic abuse and get support.

“COVID-19 may not be going away anytime soon, but neither are we for you – so we insist you let us know if you need us.”

As well as visiting families in their homes, the service has been undertaking COVID-secure assessments to re-open Family Hubs – but despite safety measures now in place at many of these sites, the service has seen fewer parents making use of services than normal.

Jeanette finished: “It is so vital that parents know we are here to support them, despite the current difficult time we’re in – we are ready and here to help you.”

To meet COVID-19 guidelines, some services at Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service remain temporarily changed – such as baby-weigh appointments and child development-stage reviews being either prioritised to those most in need or changed to virtual consultations.

The service is encouraging parents with any concerns about their child’s weight, growth or development to not hesitate in contacting them.

Visit essexfamilywellbeing.co.uk or call 0300 247 0122.