Edge Hill Helping to Raise Professional Standards in Public Health

Edge Hill University is launching a ground breaking Foundation Degree in Public Health this September

As issues such as obesity in children and the introduction of the smoking ban have hit the headlines, raising professional standards in areas concerned with public health has never been so important.

'Improving health in our communities isn't just the job of doctors and nurses. People working in the voluntary sector, care homes, gyms, GP surgeries and health centers all have a vital role to play. Our new Foundation Degree routes give people in these jobs academic qualifications that recognise their abilities, and knowledge that helps make them more effective,' said Seth Crofts, Dean of Health.

The Foundation Degree has been introduced to meet the demand created by changes in the delivery of health and social care.

The course will prepare people for roles in facilities such as health centres and residential care homes, equipping graduates to promote healthy lifestyles.

Gary Mallon, Project Manager of the Greater Merseyside and West Lancashire Life Long Learning Network said, 'The Foundation Degree will provide students with the first step towards a career in health and social care. After completion of a two-year Foundation Degree not only will they have a recognised vocational qualification, the students can also progress to the final year of a degree, which will enhance their knowledge further. It will enable the development of the skills and knowledge required to engage with individuals and communities in relation to issues from smoking and obesity to the ability to tackle widespread pandemics should they arise. Those wanting to or already working in GP surgeries, nursing or care homes, social services or council facilities, drop-in centres and private gyms would benefit from the qualification.'

For more information call the Faculty of Health on 0151 529 3084 or email healthstudiesrecruitment@edgehill.ac.uk. Edge Hill University is holding an open day on Saturday 18th August 11:00 - 16:00. For more details contact the enquiries unit on 0800 195 5063 www.edgehill.ac.uk.