LGA responds to health visitor checks announcement

2 Mar 2017 10:10 AM

Chairman of the LGA's Community Wellbeing Board, Cllr Izzi Seccombe, responds to the announcement by government on the continuation of the mandation of universal health checks.

"Councils recognise the importance of the early years and are committed to ensuring that all children have the best start in life.

"Yesterday's announcement highlights the importance of early years support and the life-long impact it has on a child's health and wellbeing.

"Government cuts to councils' public health grants of nearly 10 per cent – approximately £530 million over five years – threaten to undermine the good work councils are doing to ensure all children have the best start in life.

"If councils are to continue to deliver mandatory health checks the Government must commit to providing ongoing funding to support this vital service.

"Government must also take this opportunity to review all mandated services and ensure local flexibility so that decisions about future funding can be made in line with local needs."

Notes to editors

Universal health visiting service mandation review