A free booklet aimed at helping new parents decide on the best treatment for their children when they become unwell or have an accident has been launched by NHS Swindon Clinical Commissioning Group and Swindon Council.

“Managing your child’s health” is a 36-page publication which offers practical advice on everything from teething trouble and coughs and colds through to chickenpox and meningitis.

Dr Peter Mack, the clinical vice-chairman of Swindon CCG and a GP in Swindon said: “It can be very worrying for parents when their child is unwell or injured. This booklet will be a great resource for parents and hopefully will be their first reference when dealing with their children’s health.

It can teach parents how to spot serious illness, deal with everyday health problems and help them choose where to go for advice or treatment.”

The new booklets will be primarily distributed by the health visitors, who see new parents as part of their health visiting service.

Louise Campion, the principal officer for health and wellbeing at Swindon Council said: “This booklet will be invaluable at highlighting when and where to seek appropriate support and advice for an unwell or injured child.”