About public health

Public health is defined as “the art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organised efforts of society” (Acheson, 1988)

Our Public Health Team aim to improve the overall health of the people on the Island. The team works collaboratively with a range of local services to:

  • assess and address the health needs and inequalities on the Island
  • promote healthy living
  • develop strategies for health improvement

Public health focuses on the entire spectrum of health and wellbeing. Activity is targeted either at population level, through the likes of health campaigns, as well as the provision of personal services to an individual. 

To learn more, please watch the video called 'What is Public Health'.

Data analysis

The production of the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) aims to bring together key data and information in a way which is accessible to:

  • local commissioners
  • local communities
  • other stakeholders

It identifies the health and wellbeing needs of the local population to help improve the targeting of services. This aims to reduce health inequalities that exist between different localities, groups and communities of the Isle of Wight.

Health and Wellbeing Board

The Health and Wellbeing Board is a statutory body. It was created to oversee and drive forward health and wellbeing priorities of the Island. The board includes a number of partners including councillors and council officers.

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