Mark Greatrex, Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust's interim chief executive, writes for the Globe.

IT'S hard to believe that we are in the second week of February and although spring may be a little way off yet, the lighter days are certainly coming.

During the last week I've noticed that the dark nights are starting to edge their way out, which has lifted my spirits and we all know the importance of positive mental wellbeing during these challenging times.

Here at the Trust, we are committed to doing the best we can for our children, young people and their families.

Last week was Children’s Mental Health Week, our 0-19 Health and Wellbeing Service launched a vibrant children and young people’s website - www.wchc.nhs.uk/children.

Dedicated to local parents, carers and young people the website provides a wealth of local and tailored support, information, advice and resources.

Whether you're a parent-to-be, new parent or parent of a school aged child you'll find everything you need.

From antenatal care, immunisation schedules and mental wellbeing advice to support for children and young people with special educational needs and family weight management programmes, we’ve got you covered.

Local young people can also access a wealth of mental wellbeing information support and advice, including our new service ChatHealth.

ChatHealth gives young people in Wirral access, via text message, to confidential advice and support from our School Nurse Services on a range of health and wellbeing issues, including anxiety, bullying, friendships, relationships, stress and emotional health.

Now more than ever, with many pupils home-schooling it is vital that our young people have access to mental wellbeing support.

The text messaging service is currently available between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday (including school holidays and excluding bank holidays) and can be accessed by texting 07480635538.

If a young person sends a text outside these hours, they will receive an automated message with advice on where to get help if they require it urgently. When the service reopens the individual will then receive a reply to their message.

Our 0-19 Health and Wellbeing Teams also have a number of Facebook pages to support local parents, carers and young people and post regular videos about mental wellbeing and other areas including weaning, sleep and behaviour.

Make sure you 'like' their Facebook pages to stay up-to-date; search 'Health Visiting Hub' and 'My Health Wirral'.

Wirral's 'My Child Can' Facebook page is another great hub of information to support parents and carers to give their little ones the best possible start in life.

Throughout lockdown our children and young people’s services have quickly and safely adapted so they could continue supporting local families.

The dedicated teams are always here for you.

So, if you are a parent or carer and need to speak to a member of the 0-19 Health and Wellbeing Service for advice or guidance you can contact them via telephone - 0151 514 0219 (Mon – Fri, 9am-5pm, including bank holidays).

Remember to stay safe.