Previously to complete an application for Healthy Start Vouchers a health worker has to sign the form.
This requirement has made it very difficult to get any valid forms completed while the health services prioritise action on COVID-19. However, it is now possible to send a form off without a signature. It's important to understand the detail behind this:
As of right now, nothing has currently changed in the application process: applications need to be completed on paper and then posted to the Healthy Start Issuing Unit, same as before (including the need for the applicant to sign the form).
Please see the application form here - you may send on to any colleagues or partners who will be able to send them out to families on low incomes who may be eligible.
Please see eligibility criteria here.
New legislation* was recently passed that will waive the need for the signature as of 6th April.
Therefore, if applicants are currently unable to obtain a signature for their application, it can still be submitted with Part B blank and these applications will be held onto until 6th April when they can then be processed.
From now until 6th April applicants are advised to include a cover letter with their application form that includes full name, date, signature and a brief explanation of why Part B is blank.
You can download a template of a cover letter here.
*This legislation was passed in preparation for the new digital application form which will not require a health professional's signature. It is not currently available updates on the new timeline for this rollout are expected soon.
Thanks to Greater Manchester Poverty Action for sharing this important information. You can sign up to receive updates from them here.
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