Healthy pregnancy
Healthy start scheme
Healthy Start is a scheme to help towards the cost of buying healthy food, milk and formula milk. If you are pregnant or have children under 4 years old, and you meet the income criteria, you can apply for a pre-loaded chip and pin card to use in food shops. The card is automatically loaded with funds, every 4 weeks. This same card can also be used to access free vitamins.
Find out how much money you could get on your card
Paper vouchers have switched to a digital card
Paper vouchers have stopped, you may have heard them being called ‘milk vouchers’. If you are either new to the scheme, or were already received paper vouchers, you need to apply to get the new pre-loaded chip and pin card to use in shops. You can also claim free child and adult vitamins.
Check if you meet the criteria and apply online
Top Tip 1: When typing your family’s names, ensure they are typed exactly as they appear on your other benefit award letters.
Top Tip 2: Once you receive your card, keep hold of the letter it comes with. You will need your client ID on the letter when you call to Activate your card.
Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
Smoke-free pregnancy
Warrington Stop Smoking Pregnancy Service
If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant you or your partner can access the Stop Smoking Pregnancy Service. Call 01925 662260 or 07770 341 468.
Stop smoking in pregnancy - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Eating well for a healthy pregnancy
Eating a healthy, nutritious diet is especially important if you're pregnant or planning to be. Your baby relies on you to provide the right balance of nutrients to help them grow and develop properly
Eating well in pregnancy — First Steps Nutrition Trust
Healthy eating in pregnancy - Start for Life - NHS
Physical activity for pregnant women
Exercise in pregnancy - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
This Mum Moves | The APF (activepregnancyfoundation.org)
Healthy baby
Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
Infant feeding
Feeding your baby - Start for Life - NHS
Breastmilk and breastfeeding Nov19.pdf (squarespace.com)
Weaning - Start for Life - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
For confidential breastfeeding information and support, call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212. Lines are open 9:30am to 9:30pm every day.
Bosom buddy groups – Bosom Buddies group session (A5 flyer)_.pdf
Healthy toddler
Eating well early years — First Steps Nutrition Trust
Healthier Families - Home - NHS
Lunchbox ideas and recipes – Healthier Families - NHS
Top Tips for Healthy Teeth
- Brush teeth last thing at night and one other time during the day
- Use a toothbrush with a small to medium sized head with soft bristles
- Use the recommended fluoride toothpaste
- Brush for 2 minutes
- Spit out the toothpaste after brushing, but don’t rinse your mouth
- Keep sugary food and drinks to mealtimes
- Visit the dentist regularly
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme
School holidays can be difficult for some families. The cost of extra food, childcare, and activities to keep children active and entertained can be challenging.
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is a scheme funded by the Department for Education. It gives children who are eligible for free school meals the opportunity to take part in fun, enriching activities and receive a healthy meal. It runs during Easter, summer and the Christmas school holiday.
For further information - Find and book HAF sessions in your area | warrington.gov.uk