Our strategy

Empowering communities through collaborative partnerships and innovative programs.

Our team attending a strategy meeting for Derry & Strabane community health

Our purpose

We are committed to empowering communities to improve wellbeing and reduce health inequalities through collaborative partnerships, innovative programs, and a holistic approach to physical, mental, and social health.

We strive to create sustainable health outcomes by fostering local leadership, sharing knowledge, and advocating for equitable access to healthcare services.

A group photo with members of the Neighbourhood Health Improvement Project

Our mission

Within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area, we experience worse health outcomes than the NI average.

We are committed to harnessing the great assets available by working together with all of our partners to tackle the factors which cause ill health and build resilience within our communities.

Who we help

We work with individuals, families, and workplaces, focusing on those facing health inequalities and wellbeing challenges. Our projects provide support and resources, empowering communities and organisations to build healthier, more resilient environments.

What makes us different?

Comprehensive health programmes

Developing Healthy Communities offers a wide range of health and wellbeing programs that address mental, physical, and social health, ensuring a holistic approach to community health improvement.

Strong community engagement

With a focus on grassroots initiatives, DHC effectively engages with local communities to understand their needs and tailor programs that foster community resilience and wellbeing.

Evidence based approach

The organisation leverages research, data, and evaluation to inform their programs and initiatives, ensuring that their interventions are effective and based on the latest health data and community needs.

Our goals

We envision a world where every individual has equitable access to the services and support needed to thrive physically, mentally, and socially. Our goal is to create healthier communities by prioritising wellbeing in all decision-making processes, ensuring that health equality becomes the norm and that every person can achieve a healthy, happy life in the place they call home.

A team member talking at a podium at one of our events

Educate

  • Provide a platform to educate, inspire, and share information.
  • Educate people who share the vision and seek ways for them to contribute to the cause.
  • Work collaboratively using a grassroots approach to improve health outcomes.
People taking part in the 'I Can Cook - Acorn Farm' Project

Empower

  • Enable communities to become healthier through capacity building.
  • Unite the community voice to inform decision-makers.
Edel O'Doherty with the Mayor of Derry at a strategy meeting

Strategic leadership

  • Provide strategic leadership to influence and advocate for health improvement.
  • Build community capacity and deliver diverse projects.
  • Secure and administer funding. Share best practices and impacts.
  • Conduct research, monitoring, and evaluation.