Your Health

Your health is about more than just being physically well. It's also about your emotional wellbeing, mental health, relationships and feeling happy, safe and supported.

Being in care or care experienced can sometimes mean you've been through difficult experiences. That's why it's important that you have access to the right support whenever you need it.

You don't have to deal with things on your own. There are lots of people whose job is to help you stay healthy and feel your best.

  • If you're in care, you'll have a named health professional who helps make sure you're getting the healthcare you need.

    They can help with things like:

    • Annual health assessments

    • Dentist appointments

    • Eye tests

    • Vaccinations and immunisations

    • Emotional wellbeing

    • Healthy lifestyles

    • Accessing specialist services if you need them

    They'll also work alongside your social worker and carers to help make sure you're healthy, safe and supported.

  • Every child and young person in care is offered a Health Assessment.

    This is your chance to talk to a doctor or nurse about anything that's important to you.

    You can discuss things like:

    • Physical health

    • Mental health

    • Healthy eating

    • Sleep

    • Exercise

    • Relationships

    • Growing up

    • Feeling worried or anxious

    • Your body

    • Staying safe

    The appointment usually lasts around an hour and is all about making sure you have the support you need.

    Where does it happen?

    Your first Health Assessment usually takes place at:

    St Catherine's Health Centre
    Church Road
    Birkenhead
    CH42 0LQ

    Future review appointments can often take place:

    • At school

    • Where you live

    • Another place that's convenient for you

    Is it confidential?

    Yes.

    Your conversations with the doctor or nurse are private.

    They'll only share information with other professionals if:

    • You agree to it, or

    • They're worried that you or someone else may be at risk of harm.

    You'll also receive your own Health Care Plan so you know what was discussed and any support that's been agreed.

  • You can access health services in lots of different ways, including:

    • Speaking to your social worker

    • Talking to your carer

    • Contacting your named health professional

    • Visiting your school nurse

    • Dropping into a Health & Wellbeing Hub

    • Visiting a Health Child Clinic

    If you're unsure where to start, ask any trusted adult supporting you.

  • Everyone has days when they feel worried, stressed or low.

    Talking to someone you trust is one of the best things you can do.

    You could speak to:

    • Your Social Worker

    • Your Personal Adviser

    • Your Foster Carer

    • A Teacher

    • Your School Nurse

    • A Youth Worker

    • Another trusted adult

    You don't have to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for help.

  • Looking after your sexual health is an important part of looking after yourself.

    If you're under 20 and live in Wirral, Sexual Health Wirral and Brook Wirral offer friendly, confidential support.

    They can help with:

    • Free condoms

    • STI testing

    • Contraception

    • Emergency contraception

    • Pregnancy advice

    • Relationships

    • Sexual health information

    Appointments are confidential and many services can be accessed without a referral.

    Visit: Sexual Health

  • Looking after your body doesn't mean being perfect.

    Small things can make a big difference:

    • Eat regular meals.

    • Drink plenty of water.

    • Get enough sleep.

    • Spend time outdoors.

    • Keep active.

    • Talk about how you're feeling.

    • Make time for hobbies you enjoy.

    Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health.

  • The internet is a great place to learn, play and connect with people—but it's important to stay safe.

    Remember to:

    • Never share your address, phone number or school online.

    • Never meet someone you've only spoken to online without a trusted adult.

    • Think carefully before sharing photos.

    • Block and report anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable.

    • Tell a trusted adult if something online worries you.

    • Remember that people online aren't always who they say they are.

    If you ever feel unsafe online, you can report concerns through CEOP or speak to a trusted adult straight away.

  • Mental Health & Wellbeing

    Healthy Living

    Drugs, Alcohol & Vaping

    Sexual Health

    Online Safety

    ADHD, OCD & Eating Disorders

    Young Carers & SEND

    Advocacy & Your Rights

    Remember...

    Looking after your health isn't just about when you're ill. It's about making sure you have the support, information and confidence to live a healthy, happy life. If something is worrying you, don't keep it to yourself—there's always someone ready to listen and help.

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Got a question?

Whatever is on your mind, our Care Experience Support Team is here to support you. Whether you have questions about your care journey, available support, opportunities, or what happens next, we're here to help. Simply fill in the form below and a member of the team will get back to you.