Family Assist Solent comes to parents’ aid this Christmas

Solent NHS Trust is urging families needing non-urgent support and advice this Christmas to visit its online portal, Family Assist Solent. Family Assist Solent offers practical advice on a range of issues, including physical ailments, mental health issues for carers and guidance for expectant and new parents. All content has been written or approved by local health professionals and is available at any time from a phone, tablet or PC.

Expectant or new parents are invited to register via their health visiting service, and anyone with a child under two can sign up by visiting the portal. Information is available online up to age 11 and is available to families living in Portsmouth and Southampton cities and on the Isle of Wight.

Registered users are sent key pieces of information by e-mail at the relevant stages throughout pregnancy and the different development stages of a child's life. Family Assist Solent supports parents by enabling them to reach out whenever they need help, often at a time when they are experiencing anxiety and sometimes exhaustion.

Sema Hussain, Health Visitor at Solent NHS Trust, said: “We know that being a first-time parent or expanding your family can feel daunting and worrying and that this is particularly the case during winter months. Christmas can bring added pressure to parents, and it is important that they know that support is available to them and other family members. Family Assist has been designed to give instant information and guidance from professionals in clear and reassuring ways.

“We also recognise that relatives and friends play critical roles in a parent’s support network and helping them remain connected to those nearest to them. Family Assist Solent enables users to invite these people into the portal, enabling them to join in the overall parenting journey.

“Whilst it is not designed to replace regular doctor’s appointments, and should not be used in an emergency, Family Assist Solent does offer the opportunity to improve care by providing discrete and accessible information and connection with services at the earliest opportunity.”