Role of the Faculty of Public Health

The role of the Faculty of Public Health: Essential insights and best practices

Public health is a critical component of a thriving society. It encompasses efforts to prevent disease, prolong life, and promote health through the organised efforts of society. At the forefront of these efforts in the UK is the Faculty of Public Health (FPH). In this blog, Dr Richard Dune explores the pivotal role of the FPH, its key responsibilities, and how organisations can align with its guidelines to ensure robust public health outcomes.

Key facts and statistics

The Faculty of Public Health is an esteemed body responsible for promoting and protecting the health and well-being of the public. Here are some pertinent statistics and facts:

According to the World Health Organisation, public health interventions have been instrumental in reducing mortality rates and increasing life expectancy globally.
Established in 1972, the FPH boasts over 3,300 members, including specialists in public health medicine, public health practitioners, and others working to improve public health.
Public health initiatives led by the FPH have significantly contributed to reducing smoking rates in the UK, which have fallen from 45% in 1974 to 14.1% in 2019 (ONS).

Key definitions

Public health - The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organised efforts of society.
Faculty of Public Health (FPH) - A professional body for public health specialists and practitioners in the UK responsible for promoting and protecting public health.

Education and training

The FPH is deeply involved in the education and training of public health professionals. It sets standards for specialist public health training and continuing professional development (CPD) and ensures that public health practitioners have the latest knowledge and skills to tackle contemporary health challenges.

Advocacy and policy development

FPH is crucial in advocating for public health policies that protect and improve community health. It engages with policymakers, providing evidence-based recommendations to influence health-related legislation and regulations.

Research and knowledge dissemination

Research is a cornerstone of effective public health practice. The FPH supports and promotes research in public health to develop new strategies and interventions. It also disseminates knowledge through publications, conferences, and workshops, ensuring the latest public health insights are accessible to all stakeholders.

Recommended best practices

Compliance with legislation and regulations

Organisations must comply with relevant public health legislation and regulations to ensure the well-being of their communities. Key legislations include:

Health and Social Care Act 2012 - This act outlines the responsibilities of local authorities and healthcare providers in public health.
The Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984 - This legislation grants powers to manage infectious diseases and prevent their spread.

Implementation strategies

To effectively implement public health strategies, organisations should:

Conduct comprehensive needs assessments - Understand the specific health needs of the population served.
Develop evidence-based policies - Use data and research to inform public health policies and programmes.
Engage in multi-sectoral collaboration - Work with stakeholders, including local authorities, healthcare providers, and community organisations, to ensure a holistic approach to public health.
Ensure Continuous Professional Development - Maintain a well-trained public health workforce through regular training and CPD programmes.

Recommendations for organisations

Utilise ComplyPlus™ software

To streamline compliance with public health legislation and regulations, organisations should consider using ComplyPlus™. This software provides comprehensive support for managing legislative and regulatory requirements, ensuring that organisations remain compliant and up-to-date with the latest public health standards.

Regular training and updates

Invest in regular staff training to keep them informed about the latest public health developments and best practices. The Mandatory Training Group offers a range of courses that can help organisations stay compliant and effective in their public health initiatives.

Conclusion

The Faculty of Public Health is vital in safeguarding public health in the UK. By understanding its functions and aligning with its guidelines, organisations can contribute to a healthier society. Implementing best practices and leveraging tools like ComplyPlus™ can ensure that public health standards are met effectively and efficiently.

Enhance your organisation's compliance with public health regulations and improve public health outcomes with ComplyPlus™ legislation and regulatory compliance management software. Click here to explore our comprehensive training courses at The Mandatory Training Group to stay ahead in public health best practices.

About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.