THE health and wellbeing of young people in Denbighshire is being "eroded" according to a new survey.

More than 120 people from Rhyl, Denbigh and surrounding villages responded to a national inquiry, A Place to Grow, by independent charity the Health Foundation which found that they have been left without the essential building blocks to a healthy future.

Jo Bibby, director of health at the Health Foundation and inquiry lead, said:"Our towns and cities have an untapped resource of engaged and optimistic young people who have the potential to make vast contributions to their communities if given the chance. However, this new research suggests that the health and wellbeing of young people in Denbighshire and across the UK is already being eroded, with inadequate support systems and increased pressures on mental health at home and school. This means many are facing a potential future of poor health.

The inquiry is a two-year research and engagement programme exploring the support people aged 12 to 24 need to enter adulthood with the core building blocks for a healthy future, including adequate housing, potential for secure and rewarding work and supportive relationships with their friends, family and community.

Ann Edwards, manager of HWB Dinbych in Denbighshire, said:"Through the work we do, we come into contact with many young people in Denbighshire who are struggling to find secure housing.

"This can affect their health in a number of different ways.

"We see the impact that this has on young people’s lives today, but it is important to consider the long term impact that issues at that age can have across the whole of their lives."

Other issues identified in Denbighshire as being potentially harmful for young people’s future health included expensive or inaccessible transport options, creating a barrier to education and employment, and the current economic climate putting pressure on families.

A further concern for the charity is the availability and publicity of youth services in the county, and a lack of careers advice and teaching of practical life skills are among the key issues facing young people growing up in Denbighshire.

The initial findings published in the report Listening to our Future earlier this year, found that young people do not currently have access to the assets needed to access these building blocks – emotional support; appropriate skills and qualifications; personal connections; and financial and practical support – putting them at risk of poor health later in life.

Ms Bibby added:"Whether a young person grows up in a way that supports them to have a healthy future is a complex issue, but one which it is essential to address. Young people today face opportunities and challenges that are vastly different to those of their parents or carers.

"Our recommendations for change, due in 2019 will demonstrate what’s needed to ensure the next generation is given the right opportunity to flourish."

The inquiry will culminate in a series of policy recommendations in 2019. For more information on the inquiry visit www.health.org.uk/FutureHealthInquiry