First 1,000 days ‘critical’ for child health – Minister Nesbitt unveils new NI framework

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt

First 1,000 days in a child’s life are critical, says Minister Nesbitt as updated child health framework is launched

The first 1,000 days of a child’s life – from conception to age two – are vital for lifelong health, growth and development, according to Northern Ireland’s Health Minister Mike Nesbitt.

Launching the refreshed Healthy Child, Healthy Future framework at Parliament Buildings, Minister Nesbitt stressed the importance of supporting families during this formative stage to help tackle health inequalities and ensure every child has the best possible start.

“We know that the first 1,000 days of life are critical,” the Minister said.

“What happens in those early years shapes everything that follows. Early intervention leads to better health and wellbeing, stronger learning and development, more resilient communities, and ultimately better outcomes. That’s why this framework places such strong emphasis on the early years, not just as a starting point, but as the foundation for lifelong wellbeing.”

The updated framework draws on the latest evidence and consultation with professionals, service users and community partners. It sets out a universal programme of assessment, screening, surveillance, immunisations, developmental reviews, and guidance to support parenting and healthy choices.

A universal and targeted approach

The framework applies from pregnancy through to age 19, combining universal provision with targeted support for families most at risk of marginalisation.

It also addresses the growing demand for special educational needs (SEN) support in schools, recommending stronger early identification pathways and timely referral for children with additional needs.

New proposals include:

• Enhanced health visiting contacts in the first 1,000 days.

• Additional developmental reviews to monitor progress.

• School nurse-led support for pupils transitioning to Primary 7.

Building on strong foundations

(L-R) Sonia Glendinning, Nursing Officer, Department of Health (DoH); Mary Frances McManus, DoH Deputy Chief Nursing Officer; Health Minister Mike Nesbitt; Dr Naresh Chada, DoH Deputy Chief Medical Officer; Caroline Keown, DoH Chief Midwifery Officer.

The launch event, attended by more than 100 stakeholders including health visitors, school nurses and service user representatives, highlighted the cross-sector commitment to improving child health outcomes.

Minister Nesbitt acknowledged the financial pressures facing the Department of Health, but reaffirmed his commitment to driving forward the framework:

“Delivering this refreshed framework will require a phased and carefully managed approach. It is important to emphasise that it builds on strong foundations. The core universal contacts remain in place and are currently funded.

“I have been clear about the significant financial and resource pressures facing my Department, and whilst some enhancements can be progressed within existing resources, we will look in future years to prioritise resources to support the further changes we set out.

“I believe there is a strong and unwavering commitment to this evidenced-based framework. It is a cornerstone of our vision for a healthier, fairer Northern Ireland, and I will continue to press the case for sustained additional funding for health and social care.”

The framework update builds on the original Healthy Child, Healthy Future document published in 2010, which was commissioned under the Executive Office’s strategy Our Children and Young People – Our Pledge.

The revision reflects evidence gathered in 2022–23 and the ongoing commitment to reducing inequalities and improving outcomes for children and families across Northern Ireland.

The refreshed Healthy Child, Healthy Future framework can be read in full here.