Essex Child & Family Wellbeing Service - Chelmsford

Maryandimran

Had a letter through for a health visitor appt for my 2 year old. Appt was on a Tuesday so I called in advance to rearrange as unable to attend due to work.
Was unable to rebook at the time as they had no other available appts in their diary. Lady on the phone said she would leave a note for the booking team to request an appt on any Monday or Thursday (my non-working days).
Got another letter through the post and appt had been rebooked for another Tuesday.
Called to explain that I still would not be able to make this as my work commitments on a Tuesday had not changed - this is why I requested an appt on a day I do not work.
Was told I can’t rearrange the appt for a 2nd time and we will just be removed from the list.
A disgraceful system that excludes working parents.

Joanne L.

Not good at all. I called them in tears one day out of desperation, looking for advice on my daughter’s out of control behaviour. Was told I’d receive an “urgent call back” but three weeks later I’ve not heard from anyone. Offering a service to parents which doesn’t actually exist just demoralises further and adds to our woes.

Rob W.

I've been indirectly involved in their services, and they have provided a first class outcome.
They have an immense responsibility and workload, so waiting times can vary, but they're always courteous and professional.

scarlett T.

Absolutely a valued service for supporting children to be able to communicate when unable to verbally communicate. Giving children a voice a route to communicate is crucial and Helen is amazing supporting this with great energy and warmth both for the children and adults that are involved in supporting a child’s non verbal communication. I am an early years practitioner and Helen’s support and knowledge is a huge help for me knowing what to do step by step and that I am doing it correctly. I feel this service is giving so many young people a voice that they may not have had without it.
Huge thank you to Helen

Amy S.

Terrible service. Can’t even get a call back regarding an appointment, god forbid if there was a serious issue with my newborn.

I’ve had to chase daily for a 6-8 week appointment which was cancelled after my appointment start time. I’ve not seen anyone or had contact for weeks which is seriously concerning as these people are in charge of my sons welfare and I can’t even get someone to call back!

As I’ve still not had contact I’ve now had to make a complaint as seems this is the only thing to do to get someone’s .

Poor reviews will continually be left and I will continue to call daily until someone makes contact.

Stephanie P.

Could be better. Sent me a letter saying no help can be given to me. Not sure what the point of that was except to make me feel useless.

Ciaran H.

2 years waiting list for an assessment, hardly early intervention. I know other families in different areas of the south east getting far better help. The way we are treated is nothing short of a scandal. Putting families that need help through this sort of waiting time causes so much stress and anxiety.

Jessica A.

Took 6 days for someone to phone me back, luckily it wasn't anything urgent, first time mum with a 5 week old baby..... virtually no support given. Have to chase up to book appointments too.