Children in deprived areas of Oxfordshire more likely to suffer poor mental health
The report also finds poor mental wellbeing is a major cause of economic inactivity among young people
Children living in deprived areas of Oxfordshire are more likely to suffer from poor mental health, according to a report calling for a change in attitudes towards mental health in young people.
Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, Ansaf Azhar, has focused on mental wellbeing in children and young people in his annual report.
"Poor mental wellbeing is a major cause of economic inactivity"
The reports look independently at issues affecting the health and wellbeing of the population in Oxfordshire and make recommendations for improvement.
Mr Azhar said: “Good mental health is essential for leading healthy, fulfilling lives, but we've seen an unprecedented increase in referrals to mental health services. Around one in five young people in Oxfordshire had a mental health problem in 2023, and demand for services is rising.
“Poor mental wellbeing is a major cause of economic inactivity among young people, while unemployment and lack of opportunities in education and training can also be a driver of mental health issues.
“It is, therefore, important we see all our young people from diverse backgrounds as assets and their mental health is not a barrier to reaching their full potential. We must embed mental wellbeing support across the county, particularly supporting children and young adults in early years, throughout education and through the transition from education to employment.
“All partners have a key role to play in maximising the potential of young people taking their differences into account and ensuring they are ready for the future in a way that reflects their individuality.
“Together, we can not only protect and improve the wellbeing of young people, but also to create a productive and inclusive workforce that is fit to meet the challenging future needs of Oxfordshire.”
You can read the full report here