The Devon Health and Wellbeing Board have drafted a new Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy and it is currently out for consultation (until 4 December 2025).   The strategy sets out how they will work together to understand local needs, set shared priorities, and take action to improve people's health and wellbeing.  Good to see that climate care is a thread that runs through. 

There are four overarching principles relating to how the board operates which are:-

• Climate Care: Protect our environment and planet so everyone can live healthier lives.
• Opportunity for all: Give everyone a fair chance and the right support to live well in Devon.
• Roots for Life: Support people to grow and thrive at every stage of life, developing strong roots in childhood that support throughout adulthood and older age.
• Engage and Empower: Work closely with communities, listen well, and act together.

The draft strategy also identifies four priority themes developed by board members and stakeholders, as the focus for board action. The four specific priorities are:

• Mental health: Support people's mental health in Devon they feel supported, safe and understood.
• Best start in life: Give every child in Devon the best chance to grow, learn and thrive.
• Housing: Make sure everyone has a safe, warm and stable place to live in Devon.
• Rural areas and access to services: Ensure and support all people in Devon to be able to access the services and places they need.

Organisations and members of the public in Devon are now invited to comment on the draft strategy.

If you wish to comment on the consultation you can find all the details you will need here:

https://www.devon.gov.uk/haveyoursay/consultations/joint-health-and-wellbeing-strategy-consultation-2025/