Public Health services for children, young people and families, and sexual health - have your say

We sought your views on proposed changes to public health services for children, young people, families, and sexual health in North Northamptonshire. The consultation focused on improving service accessibility, increasing targeted support, and enhancing digital and community-based options to ensure services meet the needs of our local communities.

154 residents participated in the online consultation.

Feedback highlighted strong support for targeted services for vulnerable parents and parents-to-be, with particular emphasis on mental health support, home visits, and assistance with parenting education. Respondents stressed the need for culturally sensitive healthy weight programmes that integrate physical and mental health support while addressing affordability and access barriers.

There was strong support for introducing dedicated services for children (0–11 years) and young people (11–19 years), with over 75% of respondents rating this as either "very important" or "somewhat important." Many recognised that age-specific services would better address the distinct needs of children and young people.

Emotional health and wellbeing support for young people emerged as a key priority, with calls for better accessibility, face-to-face support, and options such as peer groups and family therapy.

For sexual health services, respondents highlighted the importance of improving access through local venues, including GP surgeries, pharmacies, schools, and community centres. Digital options for STI testing and contraceptive services were welcomed by some, but a blended approach combining digital and in-person services was preferred. There was also a clear call for targeted awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and improve knowledge of services like emergency contraception and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).

Your feedback directly shaped the new service models. For children, young people, and families, there will be a stronger focus on early intervention, targeted services for vulnerable parents, and a dedicated 11–19 service model. Emotional health and wellbeing support has been enhanced, and digital access will be improved through a dedicated Digital Front Door, offering families a user-friendly online platform for information, advice, and guidance. In addition, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in schools will be strengthened to ensure young people receive inclusive, age-appropriate teaching, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices.

For sexual health services, access will be expanded through a network of local services delivered at convenient venues, including GP surgeries, pharmacies, and community centres, supported by centralised sexual health clinics to ensure consistent, high-quality care. Digital self-testing kits for STIs will continue to be available, with strengthened follow-up support to ensure seamless access to treatment and advice. Access to emergency contraception and PrEP will be improved, and awareness campaigns will aim to reduce stigma and improve understanding of services, with tailored approaches to ensure key messages reach specific communities, such as LGBTQ+ groups and rural residents.

Your contributions have played a crucial role in shaping these services, and ongoing engagement will ensure they continue to meet the needs of our communities.