Issue - decisions

Approval to Fund 12-Month Health Visitor Capacity to Strengthen Engagement and Outcomes for Families

03/06/2026 - Approval to Fund 12-Month Health Visitor Capacity to Strengthen Engagement and Outcomes for Families

RESOLVED - That:
1.2 As part of Oldham’s commitment to improving outcomes for children and families, breastfeeding is recognised as a cornerstone of early development and maternal wellbeing. Evidence shows that breastfeeding delivers both immediate and long-term health benefits for mother and child, fostering emotional attachment and strengthening family bonds. It also plays a critical role in reducing health inequalities, with recent studies confirming that breastfeeding can lower the likelihood of childhood obesity by up to 25%. This emphasis on breastfeeding supports Oldham’s wider ambition to embed preventative approaches, promote equity, and ensure every child has the best start in life. The additional 0.6 FTE Health Visitor capacity will strengthen our reach, ensuring consistent breastfeeding support and messaging is embedded across more families in our communities. This post will also form an important addition to the establishment of the NCA element of the Integrated Children & Families Service, further enhancing our collective ability to deliver coherent, joined-up early years support.