15/09/2004

New NHS charter set to shake up child healthcare

A radical shake-up of children's healthcare which is designed to improve healthcare provision for children has been announced today.

Under the National Service Framework (NSF) for Children, Young People and Maternity Services, children with complex health problems will be treated at home and child patients will also have greater involvement in decisions over treatment.

Also among the new guidelines, which are expected to be phased in over 10 years, are provisions for improved support of women suffering from postnatal depression, severe mental health or from domestic violence.

According to Professor Al Aynsley-Green, National Director for Children's Services, today's framework document will refocus services around the "real needs of children and their families", as opposed to organisations or professionals.

Health Secretary John Reid endorsed the NSF charter as a "step forward in health service reform".

He added: "Children and young people are not just mini-adults. They need more personalised services that are tailored to meet their individual needs."

Today's announcement is in addition to the government's commitment to release £300 million in funding over three years to target child and adolescent mental health services.

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