Derbyshire Family Health Service

Derbyshire Family Health Service Supporting Derbyshire children, young people and families with health, wellbeing and NHS advice. To speak to our team tel. Closed bank holidays. Thank you

no. 01246 515100 (Mon-Fri, 9am - 4.30pm). If you need urgent medical advice please contact your own GP, out of hours service - NHS 111, or in an emergency, call an ambulance or attend your local Emergency Department. House rules:

We ask everyone to remember this is a family page and to abide by social media rules. We welcome all comments and opinions, but ask everyone to be polite and respectful to one another. Comments that include content deemed to be abusive, offensive, sexist, racist, trolling or contain bad language will be removed. Anyone who persistently posts such content will be blocked from the page. We sincerely hope this will never happen so we can be an open, honest and respectful online community.

Self-harm is when someone deliberately hurts themselves as a way of managing overwhelming feelings. It’s more common tha...
06/03/2026

Self-harm is when someone deliberately hurts themselves as a way of managing overwhelming feelings. It’s more common than many people realise, particularly in pre-teens and teenagers.

Hearing about self-harm can feel frightening as a parent or carer. For many young people, it can be a sign that they’re struggling to cope with their thoughts or emotions, it doesn't always mean that they are thinking about ending their life.

There isn’t always an obvious reason, and young people may go to great lengths to hide it. Some possible signs can include changes in mood, becoming withdrawn, wearing clothing that covers a lot of their body even in warm weather, unexplained injuries, or sudden changes in friendships or behaviour. These signs don’t always mean self-harm, but they can be a prompt to gently check in.

If you’re worried about your child:

* Stay calm and try not to react with anger or panic
* Listen without judgement
* Let them know you’re there for them
* Reassure them that support is available

You don’t need to have all the answers. Trying for open, honest conversation is a great first step.

Support is available through school pastoral teams, our public health nurses and your GP. Young people can also access confidential support from services such as Childline.

If you believe your child is at immediate risk of serious harm, seek urgent medical help.

No parent or carer should feel they have to handle this alone. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength and early support can make a real difference.

Parents and carers of 5-19 year olds can contact the public health nurses via our ChatHealth text service on 07312 263744 and young people aged 11-19 can text the public health nurses via ChatHealth on 07507 330025. (Monday to Friday excluding bank holidays, 9am to 4.30pm).

[Image description: Black and white image showing young persons hands applying a cream or concealer to a leg with some scars and a bruise. The text "Self-harm" is above and the Derbyshire Family Health Service logo is in the top right hand corner.]

Children need help brushing until around the age of 7. Let them start the brushing and then help them finish, making lea...
05/03/2026

Children need help brushing until around the age of 7. Let them start the brushing and then help them finish, making learning a fun experience. Stories make brushing easier and more enjoyable. Books about toothbrushing and dentist visits help children feel curious and confident.

This World Book Day, visit a library and pick a story to share. A fun story can turn brushing into something your child looks forward to. Small moments lead to healthy smiles.

[Image description: A smiling adult and young child sit on a sofa, reading a yellow book. Child points at pages. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo top right.]

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus. Many people will get it at some point and won’t even know, as it usua...
04/03/2026

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus. Many people will get it at some point and won’t even know, as it usually has no symptoms.

Some types of HPV can cause ge***al warts and, in later life, cancers including cervical, a**l, pe**le and some head and neck cancers.

HPV spreads easily through close skin-to-skin contact in the ge***al area. You don’t need to have penetrative s*x to catch it, and it can be passed on without anyone realising.

There’s no treatment for the virus itself - but there is protection.

The HPV vaccine helps protect against the types of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer and ge***al warts, as well as several other cancers. That’s why it’s offered to young people aged 12–13, before they’re ever likely to come into contact with the virus.

The vaccine is usually offered by the School Aged Immunisation Service in Year 8, either in school or at local community venues.

If your child is invited for their HPV vaccination, it’s a simple step that can help protect them for years to come.

For more information on the vaccination visit: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/hpv-vaccine/

[Image description: Two teenagers smiling and chatting outside. Text: "HPV can affect anyone in their lifetime. Help protect yourself from high-risk HPV cancers. Let's stop HPV cancers together." NHS logo in the top right.]

Small magnets can be very dangerous if swallowed by children. This includes loose fridge magnets, magnetic toys, jewelle...
03/03/2026

Small magnets can be very dangerous if swallowed by children. This includes loose fridge magnets, magnetic toys, jewellery and items with small magnetic parts.

Swallowing even one magnet is dangerous and requires urgent medical advice. If more than one magnet, or a magnet and another metal object, is swallowed, they can attract inside the body and cause serious internal injuries that may require emergency surgery. Always seek medical attention immediately if a magnet is swallowed.

To reduce the risk:

• If you have small children, don’t have small, loose magnets in the house.
• Check toys for loose or damaged magnetic parts.
• Avoid fridge magnets, magnetic fidget sets or novelty magnets that can easily come apart.
• Only buy magnetic toys from reputable retailers, never buy cheap magnetic toys or products from third-party sellers on online marketplaces.
• If you do have magnetic toys, supervise play with them.

If you think your child may have swallowed a magnet, go straight to A&E or call 999, even if they seem well.

[Image description: An infographic titled "Magnet dangers" shows colourful alphabet magnets on a fridge, small silver magnetic balls, and magnetic construction toys. The Derbyshire Family Health Service logo appears in the top right corner.]

It is secondary school place announcement day! This can be an exciting and anxious time, for you and for your young pers...
02/03/2026

It is secondary school place announcement day!

This can be an exciting and anxious time, for you and for your young person. If you don't get a place for your child in the school you were hoping for, you can make a school admissions appeal. Your appeal will be heard by an appeal panel independent of the school and the council.

From midnight tonight (2 March 2026) you can log into your account to see your allocated secondary school place: https://caya-apps.derbyshire.gov.uk/Synergy/SynergyWeb/Login.aspx

If you applied online, you will receive an email with the decision. If you didn't apply online a decision letter will be posted to you.

[Image description: An adult and a young girl sit on a sofa, smiling at a laptop. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo is top right.]

Following a recent tragic case that has been in the media, it is important to remind parents and carers the dangers of b...
27/02/2026

Following a recent tragic case that has been in the media, it is important to remind parents and carers the dangers of button batteries.

Button batteries are small, shiny and easy for curious babies and children to pick up. But if swallowed, they are extremely dangerous.

When a button battery is swallowed, it can cause severe burns in the throat or stomach, within just a short period of time. These burns can lead to serious internal injuries, heavy bleeding and, in some cases, can be fatal - even if a child initially seems well.

Button batteries are commonly found in everyday items such as remote controls, key fobs, watches and toys.

To reduce the risk:

* Store spare and used button batteries out of sight and reach
* Check that battery compartments are secure and can’t be easily opened
* Dispose of used batteries safely and straight away

If you think a child may have swallowed a button battery, seek emergency medical help immediately - do not wait for symptoms.

A few simple precautions can help prevent a very serious accident.

You can learn more about button battery dangers here: https://capt.org.uk/button-batteries-understanding-the-risks/

[Image description: Close-up of several button batteries on a light blue surface, red border, "Button battery danger" text, Derbyshire Family Health Service logo in top right.]

Do you know what to do if a baby, child, young person or even an adult needs CPR? It’s one of those skills none of us ev...
26/02/2026

Do you know what to do if a baby, child, young person or even an adult needs CPR? It’s one of those skills none of us ever expects or wants to have to use, but knowing what to do can make all the difference in an emergency.

Taking a few minutes to learn or refresh your knowledge could help you stay calm and act with confidence when it really matters. The British Heart Foundation have produced some amazing resources - find simple, step-by-step guidance for babies and children here ➡️ https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/how-to-save-a-life/how-to-do-cpr/how-to-do-cpr-on-a-child-or-baby or take their 15 minute online CPR RevivR training.

Save the link, share it with fellow parents and carers, and let’s make sure we’re all prepared. ❤️

[Image description: An adult demonstrates baby CPR using two fingers on a mannequin's chest, Derbyshire Family Health Service logo visible in the corner.]

It’s completely normal for parents and carers to feel concerned about their young person’s s*xual health and to wonder w...
25/02/2026

It’s completely normal for parents and carers to feel concerned about their young person’s s*xual health and to wonder where to send them for reliable, confidential advice.

Our public health nurses are here to support young people, and they can provide clear, age-appropriate advice around being ready for s*x, s*xual consent and how to keep safe and healthy. This includes talking through contraception options in a supportive, non-judgemental way.

The service is confidential, so what young people tell the public health nurses will not be shared with anyone else (unless they are being hurt or harmed or are hurting or harming someone else). The legal age to have s*x is 16 years old, however the service recognises that people are interested in and/or having s*x before they are 16 years old.

They can also offer:
• emergency contraception
• pregnancy testing
• chlamydia screening
• access to the condom distribution scheme (C-Scheme) for 13 to 19 year olds

Having access to trusted information and services helps young people make safer, more informed choices and is reassuring for parents and carers too.

Young people aged 11-19 can text our public health nurses on 07507 330025. This is a confidential text messaging service providing advice and support. Available Monday to Friday, 9am – 4.30pm, except bank holidays.

They can also attend a drop-in at their school to see a public health nurse. In most schools they won't need an appointment, just turn up at the venue and wait to be seen. At other schools you may need to make an appointment (they can speak to their school pastoral team to find out about making an appointment or text the ChatHealth number above).

[Image description: A young woman sits on a green chair, listening closely to a healthcare professional. Derbyshire teen health logo shown.]

As the days slowly get lighter, there’s a little more daylight to enjoy being active together as a family. Regular movem...
24/02/2026

As the days slowly get lighter, there’s a little more daylight to enjoy being active together as a family. Regular movement is important for children’s physical health, and it can also support mood, sleep and confidence.

Activity doesn’t need to be structured or sporty to count. Simple things like a walk after school, playing outside, riding a bike or dancing at home all help children stay active.

Ideas to make the most of brighter evenings:
• Go for a short family walk after school or dinner
• Play a simple game in the park or garden
• Ride bikes or scooters together
• Put on some music and move together at home
• Let your child choose the activity and set the pace

Children benefit from being active every day, especially when it feels fun and achievable.

You can find more ideas and guidance on keeping children active here:
https://derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/our-services/5-10-years/exercise-5-10-years

[Image description: Three children wearing helmets cycling outdoors on a spring day, smiling. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo is top right.]

If you have a child or young person with an eating disorder you may be thinking about how it affects different areas of ...
23/02/2026

If you have a child or young person with an eating disorder you may be thinking about how it affects different areas of their health. While many parts of the body are affected by eating disorders, one of the visible effects is on oral health.

People with bulimia or anorexia can develop enamel erosion (where the hard, protective coating of the teeth is worn away by acids in sick) and those with binge eating disorders have an increased risk of tooth decay and tooth loss through high sugar consumption.

Sensitive teeth, dry mouth and enlarged salivary glands are also common symptoms. Teeth and gums can become inflamed and damaged by excessive, rough brushing after vomiting or bingeing.

You can speak to a dentist if you are worried about how an eating disorder may affect teeth and what sort of things you can do to help protect oral health.

To get advice and support for a young person with an eating disorder you can text our public health nurses (parents and carers of 5-19 year olds can text 07312 263744, young people aged 11-19 can text 07507 330025), speak to your GP or call the Beat helpline.

[Image description: A young person in protective glasses sits in a dental chair as a gloved dentist examines their teeth. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo is in the top right.]

If you’re pregnant, or know someone who is, here is an opportunity to learn more about feeding and comforting a newborn....
20/02/2026

If you’re pregnant, or know someone who is, here is an opportunity to learn more about feeding and comforting a newborn. Our antenatal feeding sessions cover feeding methods, tips for getting off to a positive start and the support available once your baby arrives.

Sessions take place across the county, and you’re free to join whichever date and location works best for you – it doesn’t have to be the closest one. You’re more than welcome to bring along a partner, family member or friend for a bit of extra support.

March sessions are:

• Long Eaton - Tuesday 3rd March 10am - 12midday
• Buxton - Tuesday 3rd March 9.45am - 11.15am
• Clay Cross - Thursday 5th March 1pm - 3pm
• Matlock - Monday 9th March 10am - 11.30am
• Repton - Wednesday 11th March 10am - 12.30pm
• Ilkeston - Thursday 12th March 10am - 12midday
• Bolsover - Monday 16th March 12midday - 2pm
• Chesterfield - Thursday 19th March 9.15am - 10.45am
• Woodville - Thursday 19th March 10am - 12midday
• Dronfield - Friday 20th March 9.30am - 11am
• Bakewell - Friday 20th March 10am -11.30am
• New Mills - Wednesday 25th March 10am - 12midday

To find full details, including venues, for these free sessions, head to the ‘What’s on’ section of our website and use the drop-down category filter to select Antenatal Feeding sessions:

https://derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/about-us/news-and-events/whats-on

[Image description: Two pregnant women sit and smile at an antenatal class, holding documents. A facilitator faces them with papers. The Derbyshire Family Health Service logo appears in the top right corner.]

After a half-term break, you may notice changes in your child's sleep patterns. Have you found that they’ve been sleepin...
19/02/2026

After a half-term break, you may notice changes in your child's sleep patterns. Have you found that they’ve been sleeping in, or that bedtime has been gradually getting later?

With school starting again next week, now’s the time to get their sleep routine back on track. Good quality sleep is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Here are a few tips to help:

- If bedtime has become later, try gradually bringing it forward again
- Dim the lights or use a bedside lamp, and encourage relaxing activities like drawing or reading
- Set a consistent wake-up time each morning
- Avoid screen time for at least an hour before bed
- Ensure their bedroom is cool, quiet, dark, and tidy
- Make sure they are eating and drinking well

[Image description: A smiling woman and child sit on a cosy bed, reading a book under warm lights. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo top right.]

Address

Headquarters, Newholme Hospital, Baslow Road
Bakewell
DE451AD

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 4:30pm
Thursday 9am - 4:30pm
Friday 9am - 4:30pm

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