Healthy Children and Young People

It is important that we give all children the best start in life and that we do everything we can to support their health and wellbeing, as well as supporting them through young-adulthood. On this page you will find information, guidance and advice to support both the physical health and mental wellbeing of children and young people.

Healthy Lifestyle

There are important steps that we can take to support our children to grow into healthy young people. A balanced diet made up of a variety of food allows you to get all the nutrients your body needs to function, grow, and repair itself. This is important to maintain good health and feel your best.

Being physically active can also help you lead a healthier and happier life. Finding movement that you enjoy is a great way to relieve stress, boost your mood, and improve heart health. For children, physical activity can be especially useful for improving their coordination, flexibility, and stamina, as they grow. NHS Healthier Families has some great activity and food ideas.

Children learn best from role modelling, so why not make healthy changes together as a family? There are many ways you could do this, for example:

  • Involving your children in the preparation of meals so they learn about different food groups and improve their confidence in the kitchen.
  • Eating meals together as a family wherever possible, with minimal distractions.
  • Using physical activity to spend time together as a family, whether that be a family bike ride, a rainy day dance party, or a walk in the park.

National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) 

The National Child Measurement Programme is a nationally mandated programme measuring the height and weight of children in Reception class (aged 4 to 5 years) and Year 6 (aged 10 to 11 years). The NCMP results are anonymised for professionals to use to; monitor and learn about trends and changes in our population, plan and deliver better services, and support engagement with families about healthy lifestyles. 

Parent or guardians will be informed about the programme before your child is measured and you will be given the opportunity to withdraw your child if you do not wish them to be measured at school.

If you allow your child to take part in the programme, they will be measured by trained NHS staff at school, clothed, and in a private setting away from other children or teaching staff. The privacy and dignity of your child is of vital importance to us and will be safeguarded at all times.

The results are confidential and are never shared with the school or with the child directly – only with the parents of the child. The NHS staff will not tell your child the measurements as they are being measured, and the child will not be able to view them. As a parent or guardian, you will be informed of the results by post afterwards. For more information about the National Child Measurement Programme, please visit the NHS Choices website.

Healthy Learning, Healthy Lives

A child's experience in education can affect their health and wellbeing into adulthood. Ensuring that learning environments support health and wellbeing is crucial. The Healthy Learning, Healthy Lives programme aims to help support and celebrate the good work of Doncaster Schools, Colleges and Early Years Providers.

  • Food, Drink and Oral Health
  • Personal, Social and Health Education
  • Physical Activity
  • Emotional Health and Wellbeing
  • Inclusive Schools

Visit the Healthy Learning, Healthy Lives website to find out more. If you have any questions or comments about the programme,  contact the Public Health team at healthylearning@doncaster.gov.uk

Safeguarding children and young people  

Children and young people spend a lot of time online – it can be a great way for them to socialise, explore and have fun. However, the online world can also present risks such as scams, cyber-bullying, exploitation and inappropriate content. 

Child Exploitation is a type of abuse. When a child or young person is exploited they can be groomed by being given things, like gifts, drugs, money, status and affection. This is usually in exchange for carrying out a criminal activity, known as Child Criminal Exploitation or performing sexual activities, known as Child Sexual Exploitation.

Helping to keep children safe

As a parent or carer, it is important to discuss with children the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships (offline and online) to help them understand the potential risks.

Children and young people may find it difficult to recognise that they are being exploited. Adults can help protect children, by:

  • Making sure you understand the risks associated with your child being online and putting measures in place to minimise these risks.
  • Being cautious of older friends your child may have, or relationships with other young people where they appear to have control over your child.
  • Being aware of new, unexplained gifts and carefully monitoring any instances of staying out late or not returning home.
  • Staying alert to changes in behaviour, or any physical signs of abuse such as bruising.

The Council Website has more information on how to stay safe online

Worried about a child or young person?

If you are concerned about the safety or wellbeing of a child or a young person, it is vital that you report it.

  • Doncaster Council: 01302 737777 or in the evening or at weekends call 01302 796000. You can also report concerns online.
  • Childline: 08001111
  • Crimestoppers: Anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In an emergency call 999 if a crime is in progress or a life is at risk. For all other incidents please contact South Yorkshire Police on 101.