CONTROVERSIAL cuts in the numbers of health visitors have been condemned by health visitors, unions and families, health bosses have admitted.

But, despite acknowledging how unpopular they are, bosses of the West Kent Primary Care Trust revealed last week that they would instead be extending the cost-saving plans to a wider area.

The planned cuts, out for consultation within the former Maidstone Weald and South West Kent PCT boundaries, will in future be extended to include the former Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley PCT area.

If the proposals for Maidstone, Weald and South West Kent are agreed, 15 health visitor posts would be cut, with more support staff instead and services targeted to families with most need.

Fewer child clinics would be held and health visitors would be linked to areas, rather than GP practices.

Chief executive Steve Phoenix told the PCT board meeting: "What these proposals will do is allow a re-balancing to accomodate those families that need a level of support that is appropriate to their need and give a greater level of support."

Barrie Collins, interim lead for nursing, said knowledge which experienced health visitors had would not be lost.

"There is a huge body of knowledge from a whole range of professionals...that will help to identify those families and that happens already."

But he added: "We are not under any illusions that this is going to be universally popular."

Sue Freeman, a health visitor for 30 years, said reducing post-natal checks could prevent post-natal depression being spotted.

Cllr Mervyn Warner, (Lib Dem) said the changes could adversely affect the council’s policy to reduce teenage pregnancies.