Agenda item

Julia Burrows, Director of Public Health presented the Board with information about her Annual Report 2021’What matters to me now – the voice of children and young people in Barnsley’.

This report was key as it explained what children and young people were telling us and particular attention was drawn to chapter 4 of the report.

There were currently many quantitative indicators in the Public Health Outcomes Framework. An observation was made that more qualitative data was also needed.

Qualitative data collection for the report contained a high level of engagement via a fun, creative, inclusive and diverse variety of exercises.

The pandemic put the engagement process on hold to an extent, but once resumed, this provided more information on what mattered to children and young people, pre- and post-pandemic.

Themes arising included:

·   Connecting with people – family and home; friendships and belonging

·   Being active and outdoor play

·   Concern for the environment and the planet

·   Commitment to education and learning

·   Health and Healthcare

·   Help and support for those who need it

·   Concerns around smoking and alcohol – improving life chances

·   Inclusivity and diversity

·   Feeling safe

·   Public transport

·   Having fun and being creative

·   Holidays and celebrations

There were a variety of recommendations in the report around supporting children based on the feedback received.

Providing children with a good childhood and allow them to experience joy was also a key priority within Barnsley 2030.

Credit was extended to Amy Baxter, Public Health, for being the driving force behind the report and consultation.

The Chair also praised the work that had taken place and the importance of the recommendations going forward.

RESOLVED that

(i)    the Board support the recommendations in the report and is committed to actioning them;

(ii)  it be noted that the report and consultation show what is important to children and young people and is very impactful via the artwork collected;

(iii)the Board recognises that the report shows themes of loneliness and isolation and values the importance of enabling children and young people to connect with peers, family, supportive adults, Youth Services, Early Years, and others.