Q&A: Support children and young people in residential childcare to manage their health.

Posted on August 28, 2017 Updated on August 28, 2026

Q1. Describe factors that may jeopardise access to health services for children and young people (CYP).

There are a number of factors that may jeopardise CYP’s access to health services, including GPs, dentists, opticians, pharmacies and specialist healthcare services. One significant factor is the availability of appropriate services within the local area. Shortages of healthcare professionals, limited local provision and lengthy waiting lists can all affect how quickly a child or young person is able to receive appropriate support.

Geographical location can also create barriers. A child may need to travel a considerable distance to access a specialist service, particularly where local services have limited capacity or are unable to meet their specific needs. Families and carers may not always have access to suitable transport, and the additional time and cost involved in travelling can make attending appointments more difficult.

Dental care is one example where access can be particularly challenging. Changes in the availability of NHS dental services and the limited number of practices accepting new NHS patients can make it difficult for CYP to obtain routine or urgent dental care. This can be particularly problematic when a child does not already have a local dentist.

Specialist services, including CYP’s mental health services, ADHD and autism assessment services, may also have significant waiting lists. This can result in delays between a concern being identified, an assessment taking place and appropriate support or treatment being provided. For children with complex or multiple health needs, delays can have a greater impact on their overall wellbeing and development.

A lack of communication and coordination between different healthcare services can create further barriers. Information may not always be shared effectively between professionals, resulting in repeated assessments, missed appointments or delays in treatment. In some situations, a persistent and proactive approach from the child’s parent, carer or residential childcare worker may be necessary to ensure that the child receives the appropriate support.

Financial circumstances can also affect access to healthcare. Although many NHS services are free, there may still be associated costs, including transport, prescriptions or medication where charges apply, and other expenses related to attending appointments. These costs can be particularly difficult for families experiencing financial hardship. For children living away from their family home or usual area, distance and travel arrangements may create additional difficulties.

Cultural and language barriers can also affect access to healthcare. A child or their family may have different understandings of illness, treatment or medication based on their cultural background or previous experiences. Language difficulties may make it harder for a child or carer to understand medical advice or communicate their concerns effectively. There may also be stigma surrounding particular health conditions, especially mental health difficulties. Cultural beliefs and attitudes towards mental health can sometimes discourage a young person from seeking help or continuing with treatment.

CYP may also experience personal barriers, such as anxiety, fear of medical professionals, previous negative experiences or difficulties communicating their needs. These factors can result in missed appointments, reluctance to engage with services or difficulties following recommended treatment.

Overall, barriers to healthcare can be practical, financial, geographical, cultural, emotional or organisational. Residential childcare workers have an important role in recognising these barriers and advocating for CYP so that they can access appropriate healthcare in a timely manner.

Q2. Describe ways to help CYP overcome barriers to accessing health service provision.

CYP can be supported to overcome barriers to healthcare through effective communication, advocacy, practical assistance and emotional support.

Clear and age-appropriate information can help CYP understand what a health service does, why they need to attend an appointment and what they can expect to happen. Staff should communicate openly with the child and, where appropriate, their parent, carer or other professionals involved in their care. Information should be presented in a child-friendly way and adapted to the individual’s age, developmental level and communication needs.

Healthcare environments can also be made more welcoming and accessible. Some CYP may experience anxiety when visiting a GP, dentist, hospital or other healthcare setting. A calm and supportive environment can help reduce this anxiety. A trusted adult or familiar residential childcare worker may be able to accompany the child to appointments and provide reassurance and emotional support.

Practical barriers should also be considered. Registration forms and other healthcare paperwork may be difficult for some children, young people or carers to understand or complete, particularly where there are literacy or communication difficulties. Healthcare staff and carers can provide appropriate assistance to ensure that important information is completed accurately and that the child is properly registered with the service.

Transport can be another significant barrier. Where a child is eligible, Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (NEPTS) may be available to help them attend healthcare appointments. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances and may include medical, mobility, sensory or safeguarding needs. Residential childcare workers should explore appropriate transport options with the relevant NHS service and follow local procedures.

Other options may include support from social care services, the local authority or the child’s residential care provider. Effective communication with social workers and other professionals can help identify appropriate transport or practical support where this is required.

Language barriers should also be addressed appropriately. Children and families who do not speak English confidently may require access to a professional interpreter rather than relying on a family member, friend or another child to translate medical information. Using a qualified interpreter reduces the risk of important health information being misunderstood or incorrectly communicated. Healthcare professionals should also be aware of cultural differences and ensure that their communication is respectful and culturally sensitive.

CYP should be encouraged to express their concerns and participate in decisions about their healthcare wherever appropriate. Providing a safe and supportive environment can help them communicate their worries, ask questions and develop greater confidence in engaging with health services.

Residential childcare workers can also advocate on behalf of CYP when services are delayed or when communication between professionals is ineffective. This may involve following up referrals, ensuring appointments are attended, sharing relevant information with consent and challenging delays where appropriate.

By combining practical assistance, emotional support, advocacy and effective communication, professionals can help reduce barriers and promote better access to healthcare.

Q3. Describe factors associated with a healthy lifestyle.

A healthy lifestyle involves a combination of physical, emotional, social and mental wellbeing. For CYP, developing positive habits and routines from an early age can provide a strong foundation for maintaining good health throughout their lives.

A balanced and nutritious diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. CYP should be encouraged to eat a variety of foods, including fruit and vegetables, starchy carbohydrates, protein and appropriate sources of dairy or alternatives. Breakfast can provide important nutrients and energy at the start of the day, while drinking water regularly helps maintain hydration and is preferable to drinks containing high levels of sugar.

Mealtimes can also provide opportunities to develop social skills. Residential childcare workers can sit with CYP during meals, model positive eating behaviours and encourage appropriate social interaction. Eating together can help develop confidence, communication skills and positive relationships with others.

Regular physical activity is another important factor. CYP should be encouraged to participate in activities that are appropriate for their age, abilities and interests. Activities could include walking, cycling, swimming, football, sailing, climbing or other sports. Physical activity can contribute to physical fitness and can also have positive effects on mood, confidence, stress management and social development. Team sports can provide opportunities to develop communication, cooperation and emotional skills.

Adequate sleep is also essential for CYP. Establishing consistent bedtime routines and encouraging good sleep habits can support physical development, concentration, emotional regulation and general wellbeing.

Positive relationships and social connections are important for mental and emotional health. CYP benefit from having opportunities to spend time with family, friends, carers and other trusted adults. Education, meaningful activities and appropriate therapeutic support can also contribute to emotional wellbeing.

CYP should also be encouraged to avoid behaviours that can negatively affect their health, including smoking, vaping, alcohol misuse and the use of illegal drugs. Excessive use of electronic devices and social media can also have negative effects if it interferes with sleep, physical activity, education or face-to-face relationships. Young people can instead be encouraged to participate in creative, outdoor and social activities.

Trying new activities can help CYP develop confidence, independence and new skills. Activities that involve an element of challenge can support healthy development and appropriate risk-taking. However, these activities should be carried out in a safe and well-managed environment, with appropriate risk assessments, supervision and qualified instructors where necessary.

Preventative healthcare is another important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. CYP should be supported to attend routine health appointments, dental check-ups, vision checks and vaccinations as appropriate. Regular health monitoring can identify potential problems at an early stage and ensure that appropriate support is provided.

Overall, a healthy lifestyle for CYP involves balanced nutrition, physical activity, sufficient sleep, good hygiene, positive relationships, education, emotional wellbeing, appropriate healthcare and avoiding harmful substances and behaviours.

Q3. Evaluate how a residential care worker’s actions model a healthy lifestyle.

The actions and behaviour of residential childcare workers can have a significant influence on CYP because they provide role models for healthy living. CYP may learn through observing how adults behave, rather than simply being told what they should do. It is therefore important that care workers demonstrate healthy choices consistently in their own behaviour.

One way a care worker can model a healthy lifestyle is through positive eating habits. The worker can encourage CYP to maintain regular mealtimes, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, and can demonstrate the importance of eating a balanced diet. Sitting with the young people and eating the same food can provide a positive example and encourage children to view mealtimes as an opportunity for social interaction.

Care workers can model healthy food choices by eating fruit and vegetables, choosing appropriate snacks and drinking water throughout the day. Taking a bottle of water when going out can demonstrate the importance of maintaining hydration. Rather than simply telling a young person what they should eat, staff can explain the reasons behind healthy choices and encourage them to develop an understanding of nutrition and portion control.

Mealtimes can also be used to develop social and communication skills. By sitting with CYP, engaging in appropriate conversation and demonstrating positive table manners, the care worker can help create a relaxed and supportive environment. This may be particularly beneficial for young people who lack confidence around eating with others.

Physical activity is another important area where care workers can act as positive role models. A worker who regularly participates in physical activity demonstrates that exercise can be a normal and enjoyable part of everyday life. This could include going for walks, cycling, visiting a local park or participating in sports such as football.

The care worker can participate alongside the young person rather than simply instructing them to exercise. This can make activities more enjoyable and can strengthen relationships. Outdoor activities can also provide opportunities for young people to develop practical skills, such as road safety, cycling skills and bicycle maintenance.

Physical activity can be adapted to the individual child’s abilities and interests. A gentle walk, for example, can provide exercise for one young person, while another may enjoy participating in a longer or more physically demanding sporting activity. The emphasis should be on encouraging regular activity that is safe, achievable and enjoyable.

Care workers can also model positive approaches to emotional wellbeing and stress management. When a child or young person is experiencing stress, going for a walk, spending time outdoors or taking part in a calming activity may help them regulate their emotions. Staff can also encourage young people to talk about their feelings and demonstrate that seeking support when experiencing difficulties is a positive behaviour.

Sleep is another area where care workers can provide a positive example. Establishing consistent bedtime routines and discussing the benefits of sufficient sleep can help young people understand the relationship between sleep, mood, concentration and overall wellbeing.

Care workers should also help young people recognise behaviours that may negatively affect their health. This can include excessive snacking, poor nutrition, inactivity, excessive screen time and prolonged use of social media. Rather than using criticism, staff should provide appropriate explanations and encourage young people to make healthier choices.

Encouraging CYP to spend time outdoors, develop hobbies, participate in sport and maintain positive relationships can provide alternatives to excessive use of electronic devices. Social connections with family, friends, carers and peers can also contribute significantly to emotional wellbeing.

Overall, a residential childcare worker’s behaviour can have a strong influence on the health choices and attitudes of CYP. By consistently demonstrating healthy eating, regular physical activity, good sleep routines, positive emotional regulation and healthy social interaction, care workers can help young people develop habits that support their long-term physical and emotional wellbeing. The most effective modelling is consistent, respectful and adapted to each child’s individual needs, abilities and preferences.