Agenda item

To receive the Annual Public Health Report: The Emotional Wellbeing of Our Children and Young People Matters.

The Director: Health & Wellbeing presented the 2024 Annual Report of the Statutory Director of Public Health, which focused on the emotional health and wellbeing of children and young people. The Board heard that providing the best start in life was key to tackling health inequalities, as had been highlighted within the 'Marmot Review 10 years on'. It was noted that whilst the wellbeing of children and young people had been a concern prior to the pandemic, it had been exasperated by lockdowns causing isolation in children, as well as other factors such as the cost of living crisis that have had an impact.

Members were informed that young person participation had been key, and that the report included insights on the thoughts and feelings shared by local young people. The Director: Health & Wellbeing explained that there had been a series of focus groups held at a range of young people's groups and forums, and also an online survey for secondary school pupils. Based on these insights, the Board heard that a series of recommendations had been included, that were aimed at enhancing support to ensure all children felt valued, visible, included and emotionally well.

The annual report also updated Telford & Wrekin's local position across the Public Health Outcomes Framework, providing a picture of population health indicators across the life course. Members heard that the public health outcomes considered under the themes in the report has worsened for both men and women, with both lower than the national average.

The report also highlighted a focus on children's mental health. The Director: Health & Wellbeing informed Members that mental health support was now provided in many local schools, and that they were working with Bee-U and local schools to develop a whole school approach. It was also noted that of young people accessing Bee-U services had seen an improvement in wellbeing, but there were still concerns over wait times. 

The Board commended the report and endorsed the recommendations. Members emphasised the importance of involving young people in consultations, particularly within Bee-U commissioned services and urged future collaboration and consideration of in-person services over online alternatives in some cases. Members highlighted that in person groups can be more effective at combating isolation and stressed the importance of securing the future of family hubs. It was requested that a further update be provided at a future meeting and asked that additional consideration be given to transitional services.

The Chief Executive Officer: Shropshire Telford & Wrekin Integrated Care System acknowledged Members comments and assured that alternative services would include both online and in-person options. The Chief Executive officer committed to meeting with the youth forum to co-produce services and advised that clarity would be sought on the closure of BEAM. It was proposed that the recommendations outlined in the report form the baseline for future report to the Board.

RESOLVED - that the Health & Wellbeing Board endorse and support the recommendations of the Director of Public Health’s Annual Report 2024, which are aimed at improving the emotional health and wellbeing of children and young people in the borough.