Health and care partners across Leeds are currently experiencing significant pressure on urgent and emergency services, particularly children’s A&E at LTHT. As part of a recent System Silver discussion, partners agreed to share clear, trusted resources that VCSE organisations can help amplify through their networks.
We’re sharing the resource below so VCSE organisations can pass it on, use it in their own comms, or include it in conversations with families they support.
What this resource is
This is a simple decision guide for parents and carers of children aged 0–5, developed with reference to NICE guidance and used locally by public health and NHS partners.
It helps families:
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Check common symptoms in a structured way
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Understand which signs are more serious
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Know what action to take next (self-care, GP / NHS 111, or urgent care)
The guide uses a clear green / amber / red format, making it easy to understand and share.
Why this is being shared with the VCSE sector
Many VCSE organisations are trusted points of contact for families — often before people reach statutory services. Sharing consistent, trusted messaging can help:
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Reduce uncertainty and anxiety for parents and carers
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Support people to use the right service at the right time
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Ease pressure on A&E while ensuring urgent cases still get rapid help
This resource is not about discouraging care, but about supporting informed decision-making.
How VCSE organisations might use this
You could:
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Share the image or link on your social media channels
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Include it in newsletters or WhatsApp groups
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Use it in conversations, groups or sessions with parents and carers
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Display printed copies in community settings (available via PHRC)
Where the resource links to
The guide signposts families to WY Healthier Together, which provides NHS-approved advice for parents and carers across West Yorkshire:
https://www.wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk
It also reinforces when to:
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Speak to a pharmacist or GP
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Call NHS 111 (24/7)
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Attend children’s A&E or call 999 if a child is seriously unwell
About the resource
This digital resource is provided via the Public Health Resource Centre and shared by health and care partners across Leeds. Physical copies can be ordered directly through the PHRC.
