Colleagues from CHFT have been pivotal in designing an improved programme to give parents of young children in Calderdale a clearer idea of their child’s development.

The Early Years Foundation Stage progress check, received by children aged 2-3 (who are attending a childcare setting) , and the Healthy Child Programme, which reviews a child’s health and development, are being brought together into an Integrated Review, making it easier for parents to understand their child’s overall progress.

Locality Manager & Professional Lead Health Visiting Jan Ghee said: “The whole purpose of working across multi-agencies is to get the best outcomes for children. I really believe this improved Integrated Review will support that.

“I’m excited we’re building on the best practice that’s been happening in Calderdale to make sure all children in the area have the same excellent experience”.

Age 2-3 is a crucial stage in a child’s development, where problems with speech, behaviour and other development issues may become visible, but there is still time to make a real difference.

Parents are being invited by their Health Visitor to complete a short questionnaire about their child’s progress and when this is put together with the Two Year Old Progress Check carried out in childcare settings, parents can be sure their child will get a strong start in life.