About us

The PHA was established in 2009 under a major reform of health structures in Northern Ireland.

We are a multi-disciplinary, multi-professional body with a strong regional and local presence. We have four key functions:

  • health and social wellbeing improvement;
  • health protection;
  • public health support to commissioning and policy development;
  • HSC research and development.

We were set up to provide a renewed and enhanced focus on public health and wellbeing by bringing together a wide range of public health functions under one organisation.

We are also required to create better inter-sectoral working, including enhanced partnership arrangements with local government, to tackle the underlying causes of poor health and reduce health inequalities.

Our purpose, vision and values are as follows:


OUR VISION
Protect and improve the health and social wellbeing of our population and reduce health inequalities through strong partnerships with individuals, communities and other key public, private and voluntary organisations.


OUR PURPOSE
All people and communities are enabled and supported in achieving their full health and wellbeing potential, and inequalities in health are reduced.


OUR VALUES

  • We put individuals and communities at the heart of everything we do in improving their health and social wellbeing and reducing health inequalities.
  • We act with openness and honesty and treat all with dignity, respect and compassion as we conduct our business.
  • We work in partnership with individuals, communities and other public, private, community and voluntary organisations to improve the quality of life of those we serve.
  • We listen to and involve individuals and communities.
  • We value, develop and empower our staff and strive for excellence and innovation.
  • We are evidence-led and outcomes-focused.