THURROCK Council has played a part in the development of a new smart phone app which is aimed at offering help to parents of young children.

The app, called 'Ask Teddi', has been developed by Berkshire software company Solutions4Health and is also supported by Slough Council.

Solutions4Health says it has a passion and a track record for tackling health inequalities, adding: "We provide a one stop solution for commissioners accountable for outcome focused integrated public health services through the successful integration of healthcare and technology."

Thurrock's portfolio for children's and adult social care, Cllr James Halden said: "Ask Teddi is a unique and innovative use of digital technology that is able to provide personalised information to its users.

"Research shows the first 1,001 days of a child's life are crucial and this app will support parents and carers in making sure they are giving their child the best possible start in life.

"The support this will provide the parents of Thurrock with is invaluable.

"Parents can often worry that they aren't doing the right thing, or should do things differently. Some then look to the internet for answers, but this can result in accessing incorrect or out of date information. This free app is a great tool that will ensure that accurate and expert information is readily available, to all parents and carers of children aged five and under.

"We have had a great response so far from parents who have trialled the app and we can't wait to see the greater impact it will have now that it is widely available for everyone in Thurrock."

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Thurrock Council, which has paid £53,000 to Solutions4Health, first worked with the Reading company in May to produce a 'back to school' video for young children which cost £5,000.

You can find out more about the app on the Thurrock Council website or download the free app at ask.teddi.com.