Oral QuestionDepartment of Health and Social Care

“What steps his Department is taking to improve the provision of NHS health visitors.”

Tabled: 3 June 2026Answered: 9 June 2026

Asked by

Mr Luke Charters

Labour — York Outer

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care

Answer from Hansard

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Mrs Sharon Hodgson)

Health visitors play a vital role in supporting babies, children and families. Under the previous Government, the number of health visitors fell significantly, which is why this Government have taken action. The upcoming professional strategy for nursing and midwifery will set out a bold direction of travel to strengthen health visiting across England. We have already made improvements with all post-birth health and development reviews now completed for over 80% of children nationally, which is the highest level since recording began.