Public Health: About Us

Public health is often defined as ‘The science and art of promoting and protecting health and well-being, preventing ill-health and prolonging life through the organised efforts of society.†

Public health is about promoting and protecting health and wellbeing, preventing ill health and prolonging life through the organised efforts of society.

We do this by assessing the health assets and needs of the islands' communities, strategic planning to help the population achieve the best possible health, working with communities, individuals and partners in the statutory, voluntary, business and private sectors, and supporting robust monitoring and evaluation of services and plans. 

† Faculty of Public Health, 2010

Our priorities encompass:

National Priorities†

• A Scotland where we live in vibrant, healthy and safe places and communities.
• A Scotland where we flourish in our early years.
• A Scotland where we have good mental wellbeing.
• A Scotland where we reduce the use of and harm from alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
• A Scotland where we have a sustainable, inclusive economy with equality of outcomes for all.
• A Scotland where we eat well, have a healthy weight and are physically active.

† Public Health Priorities for Scotland, Scottish Government, 2019

Local Priorities

• Blood Borne Viruses and Sexual Health
• Communities and Inequalities
• Early Years and Young People
• Health Protection
• Mental Wellbeing
• Nutrition/Obesity
• Older People
• Physical Activity
• Screening
• Smoking
• Substance Misuse
• Vulnerable Groups
• Workplace