The Cornwall mental health report that wants a different approach

Most conversations about mental health start with services, waiting lists and who to call in a crisis. This year’s public health report for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly starts somewhere else, with housing, money, work and whether people feel they belong.

What the report found

The annual report comes from Cornwall’s Director of Public Health, Dr Eunan O’Neill, and the Director of Public Health for the Isles of Scilly, Katie Ash. It focuses on mental health and wellbeing, and calls for greater investment in prevention, early intervention and community support.

It reveals that around 77 people lose their lives to suicide each year in Cornwall, with suicide rates remaining higher than the national average.

The report draws on research and on the experiences of residents. Its evidence shows that strong relationships, a sense of belonging, financial security, safe and stable housing, and opportunities to take part in community life all play a key role in mental health.

The barriers people described

Residents also spoke about what gets in the way. They highlighted stigma, rural isolation, difficulties accessing support and the pressures of everyday life.

The report argues that access to specialist mental health services remains essential. But it says preventing poor mental health requires action across housing, employment, education, communities and other areas that influence wellbeing.

“This report is a call to action”

Dr Eunan O’Neill, Director of Public Health for Cornwall, said: “Mental health and wellbeing underpin every aspect of our lives, yet for too many people in our communities good mental health remains out of reach. Every life lost to suicide, drug and alcohol-related harm, or the impacts of trauma, poverty and social isolation is one too many.

“This report is a call to action. The evidence and the voices of local people tell us that if we want to improve mental health and save lives, we must focus not only on services but also on the conditions that help people thrive. By investing in prevention, strengthening communities and tackling the root causes of poor mental health, we can build a healthier and more resilient Cornwall.”

The view from the Isles of Scilly

Katie Ash, who is also Assistant Director of Public Health for Cornwall, said: “Community is at the heart of life on the Isles of Scilly and we know how important strong relationships and connections are for our mental wellbeing. This report reminds us that mental health is shaped by many aspects of our daily lives, from our homes and workplaces to the support we find in our communities. By continuing to work together, we can create the conditions that help everyone to look after their mental health and live well.”

Work already under way

The report also recognises the work already taking place across Cornwall, with voluntary organisations, community groups, schools, employers and public services working together to support mental wellbeing. It highlights the value of trusted relationships, community-based support and collaborative approaches that help people stay well before they reach crisis point.

Cllr Thalia Marrington, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, said: “This report reminds us that mental health is everyone’s business and our mental wellbeing is influenced by where we live, work, learn and connect with others. Across Cornwall, there is already inspiring work happening in communities to support people’s wellbeing, but we know there is more to do.

“We are committed to working with partners and communities to strengthen prevention, reduce inequalities and make sure people can get the right support at the right time. By working together, we can create a Cornwall where everyone has the opportunity to live well and thrive.”

The full document is available to read as the Director of Public Health’s Annual Report.