Aims, values and history
Our core aim is to support Directors of Public Health (DsPH) to improve and protect the health of the population.
Our aims and values
As the representative body for Directors of Public Health (DsPH), we are a collaborative organisation, working in partnership with others to strengthen the voice for public health and have a heritage which dates back over 160 years.
We also work closely with a range of Government departments, including UKHSA and OHID as well as the four CMOs, NHS, devolved administrations, local authorities and national organisations across all sectors to minimise the use of resources as well as maximise our voice.
We improve and protect the health of the population by:
- Representing the views of DsPH on public health policy
- Advising on public health policy and legislation at a local, regional, national and international level
- Providing a support network for DsPH to share ideas and good practice
- Identifying and providing professional development opportunities for DsPH
Every Director of Public Health within the British Isles and British Overseas Territories has the right to be a member of the Association. Deputy directors and consultants in public health can become Associate Members while former DsPH can sign up as Alumni.
ADPH is a Company Limited by Guarantee, registered in England and Wales (#08448934) and a Registered Charity (No.1164513).
We are funded by annual corporate subscriptions from our members’ employing organisations. We also receive funding and seek sponsorship for specific projects.
We work to a three year strategic business plan, produce annual reports and are led by an elected Board, which includes the President and Vice President. Our policy is guided by an elected Council which consists of honorary officers and member representatives.
Our history
We have existed in our current form since 1989, but there has been an equivalent membership body for more than 160 years. In 2013 we became a Company Limited by Guarantee and a Registered Charity in 2015.