Free vitamins offered to Sandwell’s children and mothers
Sandwell Council’s Public Health team are helping children to get the best start in life by promoting
Healthy Start vitamins that are free to all young children and expectant mothers. Local health visitors and community midwifes are offering free Healthy Start vitamin drops to all children from the age of four weeks until their fourth birthday.
The drops contain vitamins A, C and D, which are essential for building the immune system and fighting illnesses, as well as developing the skin. They are also vital for maintaining good eye health in children. Free Healthy Start vitamin tablets are also available for women who are more than ten weeks pregnant or are breastfeeding. These vitamins can be taken until their child turns one and contain folic acid, which is important for the growth of an unborn child, preventing deficiencies that could lead to poor development.
The tablets also contain vitamins C and D, which boosts the immune system and strengthens bones. Healthy Start vitamins are suitable for vegetarian and Halal diets. They are free from milk, egg, gluten, soya and peanuts. For families in receipt of certain benefits, extra help and support is offered through Sandwell’s Healthy Start scheme. Those eligible can receive additional support every four weeks to buy fruit, vegetables and certain types of milk, including formula milk.
Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, Councillor Syeda Khatun, said: “I am so pleased this is available to all families in Sandwell. We know that vitamin deficiencies can cause issues for the development of our children, but this initiative will help all children in Sandwell have the best start in life.” Liann Brookes-Smith, Sandwell Council’s Interim Public Health Director, added: “These vitamins can have great health benefits for the children of Sandwell. Folic acid is key for the development of babies and, by making the vitamins available to everybody ensures children have the right building blocks for healthy development.” Those wishing to receive their free Healthy Start vitamins can contact 0300 330 7010 or visit the Healthy Start website. Alternatively, midwives and health visitors can provide more advice. Published:Wednesday, 13th March 2024