Spark UK brings young people’s voices into Devon’s Annual Public Health Report
Our commissioned Youth Voice Survey has contributed to Devon’s Annual Public Health Report 2026, bringing young people’s experiences into a wider conversation about the county’s future.
Over the summer, Spark UK was commissioned by Devon County Council’s Public Health team to explore life for 16–25-year-olds across Devon. Our Youth Voice Survey was completed by over 180 young people from rural, coastal and urban communities, exploring belonging, safety, wellbeing, services, future opportunities and online experiences. Their contributions now feature throughout the report, alongside other local research and youth engagement.
For Spark, a youth-led charity founded in North Devon, this was an opportunity to make sure local young people’s experiences reached people making decisions about their lives.
What young people told us
Responses described an affection for Devon’s natural surroundings alongside barriers to building a life here. Transport, housing costs and limited affordable social spaces affected independence and connection. Young people also raised environmental concerns and experiences of feeling unsafe or unwelcome. Online spaces offered connection and support, particularly for some LGBTQ+ respondents.
These experiences matter to our work. Sparking conversations around mental health means making room to talk about the everyday circumstances that affect how we feel: whether we can see friends, access opportunities and feel accepted where we live.
Making listening count
Seeing these contributions included in the report is a meaningful step. We want participation to lead to ongoing conversations, accountability and practical improvements.
As a youth-led organisation, we believe young people should help shape decisions from the beginning. They bring knowledge of their communities, ideas for change and experiences that can otherwise be overlooked.
Thank you to everyone who completed the survey and helped share it. Your time and honesty made this work possible.