Community Paediatrics
Community paediatricians typically see children and young people aged 0 – 16 years old, but those aged 16 – 19 years old, may be referred if they have a learning disability and in special education.
Community Paediatrics is the care of children outside hospital. Our Team is made up of a group of friendly and enthusiastic Doctors (Community Paediatricians), Nurses and administrative staff. Although we work in the Community and are based at St Catherine’s Health Centre, we are part of the Paediatric Department at Arrowe Park Hospital.The Community Paediatric Team in Wirral provide assessments and care for children who are referred in by other professionals. Children may be seen for a number of reasons, and in different settings such as an outpatient clinic or schools.
The Community Paediatric Team considers the individual needs of each child or young person, and to do this we work closely with colleagues in other specialties (such as Speech and Language Therapists, Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists). We also work closely with Education and Social Care services.
Children Suitable for Referral
- Those aged 0 – 16 years old.
- Those aged 16 – 19 years old, may be referred if they have a learning disability and are in special education.
Conditions Assessed and diagnosed include:
- Developmental delay
- Suspected Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Suspected Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Suspected Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
Exclusions
The following should not be referred.
- Behaviour problems which are home-based only
- Specific learning difficulties only e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia (should be assessed through school)
- Continence/ Bowel management (should be referred to the specific service for this)
We have a role in safeguarding and protecting the health and safety of vulnerable children including those at risk from harm and those children not living at home. We also provide a medical service for Looked After Children (eg those in foster care or if a child is being adopted.)
We have a statutory role in contributing to Education, Health and Care plans for children and young people with additional needs. Our outpatient clinics are held at St Catherine’s Health Centre in Tranmere.
Support while you wait
There are a number of services available while you’re waiting to be seen by the Community Paediatrics team. You may find the following websites useful. A diagnosis is not necessary to access many of these services: -
Wirral’s Local Offer
Providing information for children and young people with educational needs and disabilities.
Family Toolbox
Number one resource for families in Wirral. Family Toolbox provides practical advice, links and contacts to support parents.
Wirral Social Prescribing Scheme
https://citizensadvicewirral.org.uk/projects/wirral-social-prescribing-scheme/
The role of a social prescribing link worker is to give people a chance to talk, listen to them carefully, offer emotional and practical support and provide them with the advice, information and support they need whatever their worries, questions or concerns.