Children harmed by decision to redeploy health visitors, Covid inquiry hears

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on children's healthcare, particularly with the decision to redeploy health visitors, according to testimony heard at the Covid inquiry. Gill Walton, the chief executive of the Royal College of Midwives, stated that some children "paid the highest price" of death due to these redeployments. Health visitors, who play a crucial role in supporting families and detecting early signs of issues, were moved to other areas to assist with the pandemic response, leaving some children without access to essential services. The decision to redeploy health visitors was made in an effort to prioritize the immediate needs of the pandemic, but it had unintended consequences for vulnerable children. The testimony highlights the importance of maintaining critical healthcare services, even during times of crisis, to ensure the well-being of all members of the community, especially the most vulnerable.