Earlier this month we launched our 2025 Annual Public Health Report. This year’s report is different because it was led by young people, with their films, voices and experiences forming the substance of the report and shaping its focus and recommendations.
Public health is often discussed in terms of data, services and long-term trends. Those things matter, but so does lived experience. This year’s report places particular emphasis on youth social action, recognising that young people’s wellbeing is closely linked to whether they feel heard, supported and able to influence the places where they live.
As part of the process, I was interviewed by young people who were directly involved in developing the report and I attended the launch to hear first-hand about their work. Being questioned by young people about public health priorities was a valuable experience. Their questions were thoughtful and grounded in their own experiences, and they challenged us as decision-makers to think carefully about how our policies translate into everyday life.
Young people from across Suffolk took part in a series of hacks held in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft, working alongside partners from the voluntary and community sector. These sessions gave young people the opportunity to explore issues affecting their wellbeing and to put forward practical ideas about how communities and organisations could respond.
What came through clearly during these hacks was that wellbeing is not just about access to services. It’s also about feeling connected, having opportunities to get involved, and knowing that your voice matters. These factors play an important role in confidence, mental health and a sense of belonging, all of which are central to public health.
Young people also led the launch of the report, shaping the event and highlighting the issues that matter most to them. During the launch, they emphasised the importance of connection, belonging and safe spaces, whether through friends, clubs, arts or community activities, noting that inclusive, welcoming environments help build confidence and a sense of place. They stressed the value of meaningful involvement in decision-making, calling for opportunities to move beyond consultation to genuine coproduction, with better feedback and regular engagement with councillors and other decision-makers.
Transport, accessibility and financial barriers were repeatedly noted as obstacles that prevent young people from taking part in activities or accessing support, while mental health and wellbeing, including safe, supportive spaces and trusted adults, were described as critical to everyday life. Participants also highlighted the need for inclusive opportunities, life skills development, and clear communication, along with consistent long-term commitment from organisations to ensure that young people’s voices lead to real, tangible change. Hearing young people speak openly about these issues helps ensure that our understanding is grounded in reality, rather than assumptions.
Importantly, this work wasn’t about asking young people to identify problems and then stepping away. The report makes clear recommendations about how youth voice and youth-led action can be better supported across Suffolk, particularly for those in rural, coastal or marginalised communities who are often less heard.
One of the most valuable aspects of this year’s report is the way it demonstrates partnership. Young people worked alongside professionals, community organisations and local authorities. That approach leads to better insight and, ultimately, better decisions.
As Cabinet Member for Public Health, I believe this sets a positive direction for how we work in future. When young people are involved early and meaningfully, policies are more relevant and more likely to have a lasting impact.
The publication of the report is not the end of the process. The real test is how we respond to what young people have told us by continuing to support youth-led initiatives, embedding youth voice in decision-making, and making sure this way of working becomes the norm rather than the exception.
I want to thank all the young people who gave their time to take part, including those who led interviews and discussions during the hacks. This year’s report is built on their work and will help shape a healthier Suffolk in the years ahead.
To read/watch the full report visit: www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/jsna
