The Queensland Government has launched a new child health nurse home visiting program to support the healthy development of Sunshine Coast kids.
This vital program is part of a more than $65 million investment to support families in need from pregnancy until their child’s second or third birthday.
The program has been operational in Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Central Queensland, and Sunshine Coast is the next health service rolling out this important service.
The Maternal Early Child Sustained Home Visiting program aims to deliver services closer to home, particularly for children and families experiencing vulnerability.
Families can access support through the child health nurse program before the baby is born to help prepare for its arrival. Visits can continue until the child is two to three years old.
As part of this program, about 100 clinical staff, including health workers, clinical nurses, and social workers, will be employed across Queensland over four years.
The program aims to enhance child health and wellbeing and assists families in managing challenges during their formative early years.
“I’m thrilled for Sunshine Coast families who can now access this crucial support from within the comfort of their own homes,” said Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman.
“Everybody knows how challenging becoming a new parent can be, especially when you’re already experiencing tough times. This is why we’re investing now to ensure our youngest Sunshine Coast kids get the support they need for the best possible start to life.”
Sunshine Coast Health Chief Executive Dr Peter Gillies added: “It’s important that we continue to invest in the next generation of children in our region, and as always, we are committed to providing care as close to home as possible.
“Whilst this program is nurse-led, we have a multidisciplinary team of health workers, clinical nurses, and social workers working together to ensure children have the strong foundation they need for healthy development.
“This additional support will benefit families and improve outcomes for children in our region and ensure that we can support a quality start in life.”
Servicing Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions & things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD.
