Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 4, 2025

Purpose:

Content: A vote was taken (unanimous) on a motion by Councillor James Hobro, which was carried, as follows:   “Council notes: a) The findings of the Cambridgeshire County Council’s Quality of Life Survey 2025, which revealed: 28% of residents reported struggling with their mental health in the past year, rising to 44% among 18–24-year-olds - the most affected age group. 30% of residents agreed with the statement “I often feel lonely,” including 49% of 18–24-year-olds. Women, disabled people, those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and renters were disproportionately affected by poor mental health and loneliness.   b) The Liberal Democrat proposals to improve mental health provision across the UK, including: Establishing community mental health hubs for young people to provide early intervention and support; Introducing a dedicated mental health practitioner in every school and a national wellbeing survey in secondary schools; Offering “mental health MOT” check-ups at key life stages; Ending out-of-area placements, ensuring people are treated close to home; Expanding young people’s mental health services up to age 25.   c) The valuable local work of initiatives such as “How Are You South Cambs” (H.A.Y. South Cambs) and “Keep Your Head”, which help signpost mental health and wellbeing resources, as well as the specialist support provided for Council Tenants by officers within the Council’s Housing Service.   d) The establishment of the Mentally Healthier Councils Network by the Centre for Mental Health, supporting councils in sharing best practice and resources to improve mental health locally.   Council believes that promoting mental health and wellbeing is a shared responsibility across all levels of government, and that coordinated action is essential to support residents effectively.   Council resolves: a) To request that Cabinet explore further actions the Council can take to promote mental wellbeing among residents and within our own organisation. These may include: Taking best practice from the Centre for Mental Health and the Mentally Healthier Councils Network, or other relevant organisations; Exploring training for councillors and frontline staff on signposting support and recognising mental health concerns; Encouraging Town and Parish Councils to support district- and county-wide mental health and wellbeing initiatives.   b) To request that the Leader write to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, urging the adoption of the proposals outlined above, so that everyone, especially children and young people, can access the mental health support they need.”