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.

Child Safety Week is a reminder that everyday spaces can hold hidden risks for little ones.From trailing cables and hot ...
03/06/2026

Child Safety Week is a reminder that everyday spaces can hold hidden risks for little ones.

From trailing cables and hot drinks to unsecured furniture and small objects within reach, many dangers are hiding in plain sight around the home, especially once babies start rolling, crawling and exploring.

Take a closer look at each image in our carousel and see how many potential hazards you can spot and pop them in the comments 👀

It is a great idea to take a regular look around your home for potential hazards, getting down to your child's level (yep, crawling on your hands and knees!) can help you see risks that you might not spot as an adult.

For more safety advice visit Child Accident Prevention Trust



[Image description 1: Title page for child safety hazards quiz, directions to swipe and spot the dangers; Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.
Image description carousel 2,3,4: Images around a family home showing 3 common child safety risks on each. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.
Image description 5: Graphic with arrows and text reads "Swipe to reveal the answers" Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.
Image description 6,7,8: Same 3 images around the family home with red circles around each hazard and text next to each explaining the hazard, such as burn risk, poisoning or fall risks. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.
Image description 9: End page Text reads: "Did you spot them? For lots more child safety advice visit the Child Accident Prevention Trust website" Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.]

Tomorrow, Wednesday 3 June, our Single Point of Access helpline will be closed from 10am - 2pm for staff training, it wi...
02/06/2026

Tomorrow, Wednesday 3 June, our Single Point of Access helpline will be closed from 10am - 2pm for staff training, it will reopen after this time. During this time, the 0-5 parents and carers ChatHealth text messaging service will also be closed. If you text us during this time, a member of the team will respond once we have reopened.

The 5-19 parent/carer and the 11-19 young people ChatHealth text messaging services will remain open as usual.

You can find answers to lots of common questions on our website: https://derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/

If you phone when we are closed, please leave a message and one of the team will reply to your enquiry when we return. If your child becomes unwell at any time please seek further medical advice by either contacting your GP or NHS 111. In an emergency dial 999 or visit A&E.

[Image description: Derbyshire Family Health Service notice - on 3rd June, advice/support phoneline and 0-5 ChatHealth closed 10am-2pm for staff training; other ChatHealth services open.]

Visiting family or friends with a new baby? Here are a few ways to be the guests they'll be happy to see.• Don’t visit i...
01/06/2026

Visiting family or friends with a new baby? Here are a few ways to be the guests they'll be happy to see.
• Don’t visit if you have been unwell or have been around anyone who is/has been unwell. Remember hygiene measures such as hand washing, not smoking before a visit, not wearing strong smelling fragrances as these can contain chemicals that are toxic to babies, and never ever kiss the baby.
• Don't arrive unannounced - check if they are ready for visitors and, if so, when works best for them. If they say "not yet", don't take it personally. Rest and recovery come first.
• Bring something useful; a meal, snacks, coffee or even an offer to pick up essentials on the way.
• Respect any boundaries parents have in place.
• Don't expect to hold the baby or be hosted. New parents are running on very little sleep and a lot of love.
• Offer practical help. Emptying the dishwasher, running a hoover around or entertaining any siblings is often so valuable.
• Avoid comments about parenting choices, unsolicited advice or comments on postnatal recovery. Support beats opinions every time.
• Keep visits short unless you're specifically invited to stay longer.
The best visitors don't just come to meet the baby – they come to support the whole family.
What would you add to the list?


[Image description 1: Infographic with tips for visiting a newborn: Only visit if well; ask before visiting; offer help with food or shopping. Features heart, checklist, shopping bag, and food icons. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.].
[Image description2: Infographic with tips for visiting a newborn: avoid strong scents, don’t hold baby unless invited, wash hands, never kiss the baby, offer help, avoid unsolicited advice, and keep visits short. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.].

If you’re worried about someone’s mental health, it can be hard to know how to help.One amazing resource you might want ...
29/05/2026

If you’re worried about someone’s mental health, it can be hard to know how to help.

One amazing resource you might want to share is Reasons to Stay, a su***de prevention project built on human connection and kindness.

It’s a simple but powerful idea. When someone visits the site, they receive an anonymous letter written by a real person somewhere in the world. Each message is filled with warmth, hope and reassurance - a reminder that even in the hardest moments, we’re not as alone as we might feel.

The project was created by Ben West, in memory of his younger brother Sam, to bring people together through shared compassion.

You can also get involved by writing your own letter to a stranger. Your words could be exactly what someone needs to hear on a difficult day.

If someone you know is struggling, there is also information on how and where to get help - reminding them they can talk to someone they trust or reach out to a support service can make a real difference.

Sometimes, just knowing someone cares is enough to help someone stay 🤍

https://www.reasonstostay.org

[Image description: Centred black text on a light background reads "Reasons to Stay." with a small black heart to the left of the words.]

Rinsing after brushing might seem like the right thing to do, but it washes away the fluoride that protects your young p...
28/05/2026

Rinsing after brushing might seem like the right thing to do, but it washes away the fluoride that protects your young person's teeth.

Encourage them to spit, not rinse. Leaving the fluoride on their teeth keeps them stronger and better protected.

Healthy habits also make a significant difference to their health:
• Regular meals instead of constant snacking
• Water or milk between meals
• Fewer fizzy drinks and juices
• Wait an hour before brushing after acidic drinks.

Smoking, va**ng, alcohol, and drugs also harm teeth and gums.

Help protect their smile, keep the fluoride working.

[Image description: A teenage boy brushes his teeth with a blue toothbrush. The Derbyshire Teen Health logo appears in the top right-hand corner.]

Getting portion sizes right in the early years can help build healthy eating habits as children grow.It’s normal for chi...
27/05/2026

Getting portion sizes right in the early years can help build healthy eating habits as children grow.

It’s normal for children to eat different amounts from one meal to the next. Some days they’ll be hungrier than others, and that’s okay. Try to follow their lead and trust their appetite.

If your child asks for more, it’s fine to offer extra healthy food. At the same time, look out for signs they’re full and let them decide when they’ve had enough.

If your child often leaves food on their plate but is growing well, it could be that the portions are a bit too big. Large portions can feel overwhelming and may put them off eating. A simple guide is that a portion is about the size of your child’s palm.

Some helpful tips
• Let your child decide when they’ve finished
• Try not to pressure them to clear their plate
• Notice how much they usually eat and adjust portions over time
• Keep offering a range of healthy foods

For children aged 1 to 4, a simple way to think about balance across the day is 5 5 3 2
• 5 portions of starchy foods
• 5 portions of fruit and vegetables
• 3 portions of dairy
• 2 portions of protein (or 3 if vegetarian or vegan)

Information such as the Eatwell Guide can help you plan balanced meals for your child: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/the-eatwell-guide/

Small steps can make a big difference over time.

[Image description: A child at a table eats a blueberry from a lunchbox of fruit and snacks; other children eating from lunchboxes are in the background. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo in top right.]

Sunshine, longer days… and a new arrival on the way? If you’re pregnant, or supporting someone who is, June is a great t...
26/05/2026

Sunshine, longer days… and a new arrival on the way?

If you’re pregnant, or supporting someone who is, June is a great time to learn more about feeding and comforting your newborn.

Whether you’re expecting your first baby or growing your family, our antenatal feeding sessions are here to help you feel confident from the start. We’ll cover different feeding options, practical tips for those early days, and the support available once your baby arrives.

Sessions are held across the county, and you can book onto whichever date and location suits you best, no need to stick to the nearest one. You’re also welcome to bring a partner, family member or friend along for extra support.

June sessions are:

• Buxton - Tuesday 2nd June 9.30am - 11am
• Long Eaton - Tuesday 2nd June 10am - 12midday
• Clay Cross - Thursday 4th June 1pm - 3pm
• Matlock - Monday 8th June 10am - 11.30am
• Repton - Wednesday 10th June 10am - 12.30pm
• Ilkeston - Thursday 11th June 10am - 12midday
• Shirebrook - Friday 12th June 12midday - 2pm
• Alfreton - Wednesday 17th June 10.30am -12midday
• Chesterfield - Thursday 18th June 9.15am - 10.45am
• Woodville - Thursday 18th June 10am - 12.30pm
• Dronfield - Friday 19th June 9.30am - 11am
• Bakewell - Friday 19th June 10am -11.30am
• New Mills - Wednesday 24th June 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: A smiling pregnant woman sits on a sofa reading a green leaflet, hand on tummy. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo top right.]

Looking for ways to keep the family entertained this May half term? Derbyshire has plenty going on to make the most of t...
25/05/2026

Looking for ways to keep the family entertained this May half term? Derbyshire has plenty going on to make the most of the break.

Until Sunday 31 May at Thornbridge Hall, families can enjoy a dinosaur-themed half term with fossil trails, creative workshops and hands-on activities designed to spark imagination.

If you’re after outdoor fun, there are plenty of options too. Explore green spaces like Markeaton Park, where you’ll find playgrounds, high ropes and even a paddling pool opening for the summer season. The Artbourne Art trail in Ashbourne runs on 30/31 May, there is also the Derby Summer Book Festival running this month and beyond.

For a mix of nature and learning, National Trust sites such as Calke Abbey, Hardwick Hall and The Children's Country House at Sudbury are hosting family trails, storytelling sessions and craft activities throughout half term.

Whether it’s getting creative, exploring the outdoors or discovering something new, enjoy some time in Derbyshire this May half term. You can find out more here: https://visitpeakdistrict.com/

[Image description: A family of four walk on a country path surrounded by greenery; alongside a reservoir with a stone dam visible. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo is at top right.]

When the weather heats up, your baby’s feeding patterns might shift a little and that’s completely normal.In hot weather...
22/05/2026

When the weather heats up, your baby’s feeding patterns might shift a little and that’s completely normal.

In hot weather, some babies feed for shorter bursts but more often, while others may seem less interested in longer daytime feeds. Breast milk naturally adapts in warmer temperatures, with a higher water content to help keep your baby hydrated. It can feel a bit unsettling but try to follow your baby’s cues. Remember to drink plenty yourself to stay hydrated.

If your baby is over six months, you can offer water-rich foods such as watermelon, cucumber or strawberries. Breast milk ice lollies can also be a handy way to keep them cool.

If you’re out and about, aim for a shaded, cooler spot for feeding. A fan or air-conditioned room can help, but avoid directing a fan straight onto your baby. Try to stay out of direct sun, particularly between 11am and 3pm, use shade like a parasol, and apply sunscreen of at least SPF30.

If you’re expressing, carry on as usual. You might notice your milk looks slightly more watery in the heat - that’s normal.

For formula-fed babies, they may take a little less at each feed but want feeds more often. If your baby is under six months, you may need to offer small sips of cooled, boiled water in hot weather, as formula doesn’t contain as much water as breast milk. These should be small amounts and not replace feeds. Keep an eye on wet nappies – around 4 to 6 in 24 hours is a good sign they’re well hydrated.

If you’re combination feeding, continue offering the breast more in response to your baby’s cues.

For more information on water for infants visit First Steps Nutrition website: https://www.firststepsnutrition.org/water-for-infants

[Image description: A collage of a mum breastfeeding on the beach, toddler eating cucumber, babies with bottle and yellow cup. Text: “Feeding in warmer weather”, Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.]

Know the symptoms of pre-eclampsia: • a severe headache that does not go away with simple painkillers• vision problems, ...
22/05/2026

Know the symptoms of pre-eclampsia:
• a severe headache that does not go away with simple painkillers
• vision problems, such as blurred vision or seeing flashing lights
• pain below the ribs
• sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
• feeling very unwell
• heartburn that does not go away with heartburn medicines
• being sick (vomiting)

Any of these symptoms can be serious and need to be checked immediately.

Pre-eclampsia is most likely from 20 weeks of pregnancy onwards, but it can happen at any point in pregnancy. Read more about preeclampsia here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pre-eclampsia/



[Image description: A pregnant woman in a pink vest stands in a kitchen, looking upset, hand on head and bump. Text reads "Pre-eclampsia awareness" with the Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.]

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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