Health and wellbeing
Your health matters to us. Being healthy does not mean just being physically healthy. It also means taking care of your mental, emotional and sexual health. There are plenty of resources available to support you with all aspects of being healthy. There is a lot of information on this page so please take your time to read all the information below.
Important information on this page includes:
Your health team
Whilst living in our care you should already have a relationship with the health team (the team that does your health assessments). When you turn 18 you will no longer have health assessments.
The nurse that does your health assessment or you may know it as a looked after child medical will provide you with a health summary record, sometimes referred to as your ‘health passport. This is provided at your last health assessment. If you are unable to attend your social worker will give you a copy of the record / health passport
When you are 18 your PA will support you to register with a GP (doctor). We advise that you find a GP service that suits you and is near to where you live. It is always a good idea to tell your PA who your GP is.
Your PA will also help you to register with a dentist and an optician and will help you to attend appointments if this is what you want. If you are getting welfare benefits you should be able to access free dental and optical care. They are also free if you are under 18yrs and/or in full-time education
NHS low income scheme
If you have a low income, you may be able to get help with NHS costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. The scheme covers:
- Prescription costs
- Dental costs
- Eyecare costs
- Healthcare travel costs
- Wigs and fabric supports
You can apply for the scheme as long as your savings, investments or property (not including where you live) do not exceed the capital limit.
Depending on your circumstances, you can receive full help (HC2 Certificate) or partial help (HC3 Certificate) For more information call the NHS low Income Scheme helpline on 03003301343 or visit the NHS help with health costs or speak to your PA for support.
Sanitary Products
We understand that the additional costs of sanitary products can be difficult at times. If you require any free products please speak to your PA.
Gym passes
Keeping fit and healthy has lots of benefits. But we know its often expensive to attend health facilities. As such we are able to provide a gym membership so that you can access Stoke on Trent Leisure centres which includes access to the gym , swimming and more. Please speak to your PA who can provide more information.