Public Health annual reports
The Director of Public Health has a statutory duty to publish an independent annual report on the health and wellbeing of the local population. The report provides an opportunity to highlight key health issues affecting residents, raise awareness of health inequalities, and identify priorities for action. Each year, the report focuses on a different theme, reflecting local challenges, opportunities and emerging public health priorities.
Knowsley Public Health Annual Report for 2025-26 – Our Future, Our Health: Young People’s Experiences of Growing Up in Knowsley
The Knowsley Public Health Annual Report for 2025-26 focuses on adolescent health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on young people aged 10 to 19 years.
‘Putting children first’ is a key commitment of Knowsley Better Together and a priority for the Council. Good health during childhood and adolescence lays the foundations for a healthy and successful future, while poor health can have lasting impacts on wellbeing, education, employment and life opportunities.
An important feature of this year’s report is the voice of young people. The findings have been shaped by their views, experiences and insights, ensuring that the issues explored reflect the realities of growing up in Knowsley today.
Engagement with young people identified four key themes:
- Supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing;
- Commercial influences shaping young people’s choices;
- Helping young people thrive in their communities; and
- Making healthcare work for young people.
The report sets out a series of recommendations designed to improve outcomes for young people and strengthen support for adolescent health and wellbeing across the borough. These recommendations align with the Children and Young People’s Plan 2026-2030.
Young people will continue to play an active role in shaping how these recommendations are delivered, providing ongoing feedback and insight to ensure actions remain relevant, effective and responsive to the needs of young people.