The Personal Child Health Record Book (the red book)

The Personal Child Health Record, or the red book as it is often called because of its red cover, is the main record of your child’s health, growth and development from birth and through the early years. You will be given your baby’s red book either in hospital or by your health visitor. You may be given individual sheets to put in the red book, please keep these sheets safe until you are able to add them to the book. The red book provides guidance on screening tests, immunisation schedule, normal development and help and advice on looking after your child. Helpful tips on how to protect your child from passive smoking and how to tackle problems like constipation, crying, fever, fits, spots, rashes, sunburn and other common complaints are included. Keep the red book safe and take it to all baby appointments. For the best long-term outcome for your child, you, and the people involved in caring for your child, it is recommended that you write down every item of relevant information in this book. An electronic version of the red book is gradually being rolled out across the UK. You can see your child’s NHS records, and read important guidance from the NHS and other sources. In time, the eRedbook becomes a virtual keepsake that contains not only health information (such as immunisations and screening results) but also photos, notes and other information about your child. Find out more and to register for it: