New health text service launched for parents and carers

A text messaging service has been expanded, inviting Wolverhampton parents and carers direct access to expert health and wellbeing advice about their five to 19-year-olds, via their mobile phone.

The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) has added to its ChatHealth service, which enables young people aged 11 to 19 to message a School Nurse.

ChatHealth Parentline means parents and carers can now access confidential advice and support on a range of health and wellbeing issues for their children, such as emotional health, bullying, friendships, transition or staying healthy.

School Nurses will also be able to put parents and carers in touch with other NHS or support services that can help.

Emma Allan-Smith, Matron for Health Inclusion and School Nursing Team at RWT, said: “We are very excited to be adding to our existing ChatHealth services in Wolverhampton.

“Having seen ChatHealth work successfully for young people aged 11 to 19, we are delighted to be able to launch the service for parents and carers of five to19-year-olds in our city.”

ChatHealth Parentline works by messages being sent to a dedicated number, 07312 263951, which are delivered to a secure website. Messages are then read and responded to by a School Nurse, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.