A SERVICE helping babies get the best start in life is among the successes highlighted in a new report on support for children, young people and families across Dumfries and Galloway.
The Joint Annual Children’s Services Report, presented to NHS Dumfries and Galloway Board today, highlighted progress across a range of services while also recognising the challenges posed by increasing demand and workforce pressures.
Executive Director of Nursing Mark Kelly said: “This report demonstrates the commitment of partners across Dumfries and Galloway to improving outcomes for children and young people, even at a time when services continue to face significant pressures.
“It highlights the positive difference being made through collaboration, innovation and a shared focus on ensuring children, young people and families receive the right support at the right time.”
Among the successes highlighted was the continued development of the Wee Minds Matter service, which supports infant mental health across the region.
Established only three years ago, the service has seen referrals continue to grow as awareness and understanding of infant mental health has increased. It has also expanded parenting support programmes and training opportunities across health services and the third sector, helping more families access support at an earlier stage.
The report showed a wider focus on intervening early and providing support before difficulties escalate. Within perinatal mental health services, new group-based approaches have been introduced to help meet rising demand while continuing to provide timely support for women and families.
Board members also heard how support for care-experienced children and young people continues to strengthen. The region’s Kinship Team is now fully established, helping relatives and friends who care for children to access advice, guidance and practical support.
At the same time, care-experienced young people are playing a greater role in shaping the services they receive. Through a Young Person’s Progress Scorecard, they are able to assess progress against commitments made to them and help influence future improvements.
While the report acknowledged ongoing challenges around staffing, service capacity and increasing demand, it also outlined plans to strengthen support pathways, expand training opportunities and continue developing services over the next three years.
Mr Kelly said: “While there is still much work to do, this report shows what can be achieved through strong partnership working and a shared determination to improve outcomes for children and young people.
“We remain committed to building on that progress and ensuring children, young people and families continue to receive high-quality support which meets their needs and helps them thrive.”
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