ABSTRACT
Within the United Kingdom early intervention and prevention are high on the political and health agendas and are identified as key to improving outcomes for children, young people and families (Department of Health [DH] 2009a, Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety [DHSSPSNI] 2010b; Welsh Government [WG] 2013). A public health approach may address inter-generational behaviours that negatively impact health and well-being. It will benefit society by reducing the financial burden of lifestyle-related chronic disease in adults such as obesity and will result in better outcomes for children and young people by empowering them to achieve their full potential throughout their childhood and adult life. This approach needs to begin pre-conceptually and be maintained throughout the early years and the school-aged years of a child’s life. Health visitors and school nurses have a key role in ensuring universal provision in this vital area of public health.
