Children in Care Nursing Team - Livewell Southwest

The Children in Care Nursing Team comprises of a Named Nurse and four Specialist Nurses. Our aim is to improve the health outcomes for all children and young people in the care of Plymouth Local Authority, who can come into the care system with a range of unmet health needs, and research has indicated that timely interventions can improve their health outcomes.

Initial health assessments

All children who come into care are offered an Initial Health assessment by a paediatrician with a specific interest in, and knowledge of, children in care. This should take place within 20 working days of the child entering care. The initial health assessment results in a health plan, which includes referrals if required, and formulates an action plan to ensure health needs are addressed. Specialist nurses are involved in following up health concerns.

Review health assessments

Review Health assessments (RHAs) are undertaken twice a year for children in care aged under 5 years, and annually for children and young people aged 5 years and over by the specialist nurses in Plymouth. Specialist nurses can undertake specific work with any young person in care if there is a need for continuing involvement and intervention, liaising with other professionals working with the young person.

Care leavers

Specialist Nurses can work with young people aged 18 to 25 who have left care but who require some additional support with their health.