The Y&H APDH network support a range of priority programmes, these include:
Sector-led Improvement
Sector-led improvement is based on a culture of collaborative working, sharing good practice, constructive challenge and learning. The Public Health SLI programme is based on the principles set out in the LGA document “Taking the Lead”, which states that:
- Councils are responsible for their own performance and improvement and for leading the delivery of improved outcomes for local people in their areas.
- Councils are primarily accountable to local communities (not government or inspectorates) and stronger accountability through increased transparency helps local people drive further improvement.
- Councils have a collective responsibility for the performance of the sector as a whole.
- The role of the LGA is to maintain an overview of the performance of the sector in order to identify potential performance challenges and opportunities and to provide tools and support to help councils take advantage of this new approach.
The Yorkshire and Humber ADPH network is facilitating a programme of work in partnership with Public Health England to develop a sector-led improvement approach.
Commercial Determinants of Health
The commercial determinants of health (CDoH) in the UK refer to how corporate activities and market forces impact public health. Industries such as tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed food, and pharmaceuticals influence policies through lobbying, sometimes weakening health regulations.
To mitigate these negative effects, stronger government regulation, such as advertising restrictions, sugar taxes, and stricter workplace protections, is crucial. Public health campaigns play a key role in educating the population, while corporate responsibility initiatives can help businesses adopt healthier practices. Addressing CDoH requires a collaborative effort between the government, public health bodies, and private companies to ensure that economic interests do not compromise the well-being of the population.