Background Despite increased focus on adolescence, young people’s voices are often undervalued and underrepresented in inequalities research. Through exploring young people’s perceptions of health and inequality, we may begin to understand how public health interventions can be more effective and equitable. Engaging with young people through art enables self-expression on these complex and sensitive topics. This qualitative and co-produced project aimed to engage with young people in community settings to identify their priorities in relation their health, inequality and their aspirations.

Methods Creative focus groups, co-produced with a local young artist, were conducted at three community centres to participants aged 11-18 (n=30) in disadvantaged areas of Bristol, outlined by the Index of Multiple Deprivation. Participants engaged in art and were guided through discussion by a semi-structured topic guide. A thematic approach to analysis was adopted to highlight key policy priorities for young people to be presented at a local authority meeting.

Results We produced a list of priorities for local change, which came under four themes: (1) adolescents felt they were ‘forgotten’ as an age group, which they exemplified through lack of age-appropriate activities and public spaces, (2) mental health was a major issue that was felt to be less stigmatised for their age group, but stigma and misinformation remained among the adults from whom they seek support (3) structural inequalities including differential Wi-Fi access across the city, gentrification visible in architecture, experiences of crime, discrimination and feeling unsafe were key issues for many young people, (4) finally, all participants were concerned about their future and wanted better support to make education and employment decisions. Co-producing this work enriched the project, partially alleviated power imbalances and created work opportunities for the artist. Youth workers felt that the arts project opened up lines of communication with young people around topics such as mental health, that they would continue to explore as a result of this project.

Conclusion Art is a promising way of engaging with young people in community settings and elevating marginalised voices.Young people are acutely aware of problems related to health and inequality within the community and are motivated to inform local policy. Young people’s perceptions and experiences signal the need for city-wide structural and age-specific policies for adolescents, particularly in disadvantaged areas, to support them in living a healthy life.