North Somerset Council, in collaboration with local partners, has launched its inaugural five-year mental health and wellbeing strategy, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and holistic support. The event, which took place at Weston Museum in December, marked a significant milestone for the area’s approach to mental health services.
Jo Walker, Chief Executive of North Somerset Council, opened the event with a presentation that highlighted the strategy’s core objectives. A short film was also premiered, featuring the voices of local residents sharing their lived experiences and illustrating the strategy’s central themes.
The morning session included keynote speeches from experts such as Dr. Natasha Ward, who discussed the contributions of their respective organizations to the strategy. Attendees also engaged in breakout sessions, discussing key areas such as trauma-informed practices, the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health, and the challenges of dual diagnosis.
The strategy emphasizes the importance of prevention and early intervention, drawing on insights from local authorities, health and care providers, the voluntary sector, individuals with lived experience of mental illness, and national research findings. It builds on the council’s own assessments of mental health needs among adults and children in the area.
Accompanying the strategy is a detailed action plan outlining over 80 specific measures to address the rising demand for mental health services and tackle health inequalities. The plan is structured around three key themes:
Prevention – Preventing mental ill-health before it occurs and halting the worsening of existing conditions.
Early Intervention – Identifying mental health issues at the earliest possible stage and providing the necessary support to prevent deterioration.
Supported and Living Well – Offering comprehensive, community-based support to ensure individuals with mental health challenges can live fulfilling lives.
Cllr. Jenna Ho Marris, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Homes and Health, stressed the importance of coordinated action to address mental health needs. She highlighted the focus on tackling health inequalities and addressing broader determinants of health such as green spaces, housing, and employment opportunities.
Cllr. Mike Solomon, Mental Health Champion at North Somerset Council, acknowledged the growing demand for quality mental health services in the area. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to enhancing services and ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the community.
“Our actions aim to create a foundation for good mental health across the lifespan, provide timely support in diverse settings, and co-produce services based on ongoing learning and community insights,” Solomon added.
This strategy marks an important step toward improving mental health and wellbeing across North Somerset, with the council and its partners committed to fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for all residents.
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