Tory leader David Cameron last week reiterated his commitment to increasing the total health visitor workforce by 4,200 from the current 8,764.
But as existing professionals struggle with dwindling staff numbers and high caseloads amid pressure on public spending, campaigners fear such a promise may not be followed through.
Recruitment of health visitors is already proving problematic in Haringey. In May last year there were 22 full-time-equivalent health visitors compared with 38 at the time of Baby P's death in August 2007.
Obi Amadi, lead professional officer at the Community Practitioners' and Health Visitors' Association, said the Tories are yet to come out with the details of how they will increase numbers.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
