Year 13 A-Level Biology students participated in a recent innovative education event at W5 at the Odyssey on Friday 19 th March 2010 to raise public awareness of the role of government in promoting public health issues. The event was hosted by W5 in partnership with the UKCRC Centre of Excellence for Public Health (NI), Queen’s University Belfast and funded by the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC). The event is part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science, which takes place from 12 - 21 March 2010 at venues across the UK.

The topic for this special discussion forum for A/AS Level classes was 'Recession Depression: What makes us happy and what can society and government do about it? ' The debate challenged young people to consider the role of society and government in creating happy communities. Levels of depression amongst young people have been rising in Northern Ireland, contributed in part by the recent economic downturn. It has been suggested that happiness may have its source in enhanced economic conditions, spirituality or community networks. The aim of this event was to discuss these in relation to young people.

Behavioural Therapy expert, Dr Maria Kee, introduced the debate and community, health professionals and community representatives including the Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Naomi Long, former Chaplin of the University of Ulster Trevor Johnston and Andrea Kearns from the mental health charity AWARE presented their views. The audience were then given the opportunity to cross-examine the panel on their presentations. Cormac Dolan asked a question on behalf of ICD, ‘do you not feel people need freedom and responsibility to be happy and that being constantly controlled will stop this?’

To provide the pupils with background information and develop their thoughts and questions for the debate, Dr Mark Tully from the Centre of Excellence for Public Health (NI) visited our year 13 studentd on Tuesday the 19 th January. This also provided an opportunity for students to discuss careers opportunities in science, medicine and public health.

Dr Sally Montgomery Chief Executive of W5 commented “It is very important that young people in Northern Ireland consider public health issues. These are topics that impact on both individuals and society.. We would very much like to thank the ESRC for being such enthusiastic partners in this unique event.”

Professor Frank Kee, Director of the Centre of Excellence for Public Health (NI), Queen’s University added “the Centre of Excellence is keen to engage young people to consider the role of promoting public health in our community. Research has shown that a happy society is a healthy society, and we all have a role to play in creating an environment that values wellbeing, including good mental health.

 This event was clearly enjoyed by all and we look forward to next year’s debate.