Home / HPCI Parent Network Update 21 Jan 2022
Welcome to a special newsletter that brings you the latest news in the world of health for families of children and young people with SEND in Hertfordshire, including:
New Herts “Preparing for Adulthood” guide and training videos
A number of Herts parents and carers have been involved in the development of The Preparing for a Healthy Adulthood guide, which helps families and professionals prepare a young person for the transition into adulthood and adult health services. It contains information and advice, and tools and resources that can be used to help you and your young person understand how they can be more aware of their own health needs and changes. It is accompanied by a series of explanatory videos, which are really clear and easy to understand. I do encourage you to have a look at this resource if you have a child with SEND aged 12+. I certainly got a lot to think about from it.
New Mental Health and Wellbeing page on the Local Offer
Parents and carers have also been involved in improving the information on the new Mental Health and Wellbeing page on the Local Offer. This brings together a range of different information and guidance for families in Hertfordshire who have concerns about their child or young person’s mental health.
Moving and handling training for parent and carers of children and young people with physical disabilities
Dates have been announced for the next round of free training that is being put on for parents and carers who look after a child or young person with a physical disability. The workshop provides advice and support on how to move your child safely, whilst looking after yourself. It covers topics such as the importance of back care, moving and handling techniques, using equipment and relevant legislation. The sessions are taking place in Hemel (28 January and 18 March) and Hertford (9 Feb). Please click here for times and booking details.
Covid vaccines
HPCI has been contacted by families asking about covid vaccinations for 5-11 year olds and also boosters for other age groups. For reliable and easily understood guidance, I would recommend visiting the Contact website, particularly their Vaccine Q&A page.
Have your say on health services and strategies in Hertfordshire
I’ve listed below a number of opportunities for you to add your views on a range of topics. Please note that none of these is SEND specific, but it would be really great to make sure that the views and experiences of families with SEND are captured in this work, so please do feed in where you can…
Hertfordshire’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy
The Health and Wellbeing Strategy is Hertfordshire’s approach for improving the health and wellbeing of residents and reducing health differences, or inequalities. The current strategy is being renewed for 2022-2026 and you can add your views by completing this survey.
A new strategy to improve children’s services in health and social care – have your say
The way health services are commissioned is changing across the country, which means that there is lots of work going on where your views are being asked for. We have been asked by the NHS to let you know that they are seeking views on how to improve children’s services in health and social care in our area. You can add your thoughts by signing up to take part in a focus group: Hertfordshire and West Essex Healthier Together
Give your thoughts to shape Herts GP services
You are also being asked to add your views to help the NHS understand people’s experience of using their GP surgery remotely and how they use technology in daily life. A 10-minute survey is here.
Making local healthcare equal for all
If you are of Black, Asian or Arab origin and live in Hertfordshire your views are being sought to improve equality and inclusiveness in the NHS. You can complete the survey here or call Health Watch Hertfordshire on 01707 275978.
I hope you found this health special useful. Thanks for reading and I hope you have a great weekend.
Kate Hudson
HPCI Membership and Comms Officer