Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Introduce ‘Chat Health’ Messaging Service for Direct Health Advice

An initiative has been launched in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly called ‘Chat Health’, a messaging service aimed at connecting young people and families with health visitors and school nurses. The service, which officially started on January 22, 2024, is designed to provide easy access to health advice and support for a wide array of concerns.

‘Chat Health’ is an innovative extension to the existing health visiting and school nursing advice line, enabling users to seek advice on topics such as potty training, breastfeeding, and even more serious issues like drugs and alcohol support. The service is structured with three dedicated numbers for different age groups:

• Young people aged 11-19 can text 07312 263 096
• Parents or carers of children aged 0-5 can text 07312 263 423
• Parents or carers of children and young people aged 5-19 can text 07312 263 499

Upon sending a text, users receive an automated response confirming the message’s receipt. A trained healthcare professional will then provide a response within 48 hours. The service is available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, excluding bank holidays.

The scope of advice offered by Chat Health is comprehensive, covering areas such as:

• Sleep issues
• Child development
• Support with behaviour
• Toileting
• Feeding and nutrition
• Keeping safe and healthy
• Managing childhood illnesses and medical conditions at school
• Emotional, mental health, and wellbeing
• Relationships
• Smoking and vaping
• Drugs and alcohol

Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, cabinet member for children and families at Cornwall Council, highlighted the significance of this service. She remarked that Chat Health is a critical component of the Start for Life offer in Cornwall, aiming to provide all-encompassing support for parents, carers, and families on their parenting journey. According to her, this service aligns with the council’s priorities to make Cornwall a splendid place for children to grow and develop.

For more detailed information about Chat Health, individuals are encouraged to visit the Cornwall Council website at www.cornwall.gov.uk/chathealth. It’s crucial to remember that Chat Health is not designed for emergencies.

 In urgent cases, individuals should visit an NHS walk-in centre, call NHS 111, or in life-threatening situations, dial 999 or go to A&E.

With Chat Health, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are setting a precedent in public health communication, ensuring that families have immediate access to professional and tailored health advice.