MORE health visitors are needed in Oxfordshire to support families with young children, it has been claimed.

Nationally, the Government wants to train an extra 4,200 health visitors across England by 2015 to make sure every family with children under five has the support of one.

It is the equivalent to a 50 per cent increase in the workforce.

The trained professionals work to provide health support at home and can give advice on breastfeeding, post-natal depression and help to signpost young parents to other services.

Over the next year, 180 extra health visitors are being recruited to support families in the South Central region, which includes Oxfordshire.

Clare Messenger, associate director of Children and Young people at South Central Strategic Health Authority, said in Oxfordshire, 34 new posts will be created in September.

She said: “We are currently seeking qualified healthcare professionals and students, passionate about the health and wellbeing of children, who are looking for a new career opportunity.

“This is an exciting time to join the health visiting profession and you will make a real difference to the lives of local families.”

The Department of Health is to write to all newly-qualified nurses and midwives encouraging them to consider a career in health visiting as part of its drive to expand the workforce.