Planning and health both emerged as a result of John Snow identifying a cholera outbreak was caused by a contaminated water supply. Planning was used as a mechanism for implementing infrastructure to improve public health. Our health and wellbeing is hugely influenced by our built and natural environment. Yet, in the 21st century the two professions are seemingly divorced from each other. What can we do to bridge the planning and health gap once again?
On Tuesday 22nd November 2022, EP/SLC Planners Alannah Healey and Jo Rogers spent a day shadowing Michael Chang in the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities within the Department of Health and Social Care as part of the RTPI’s Chief Planners of Tomorrow initiative. This scheme aims to give young planners (up to 10 years post qualification) insight into ‘planning at the top’; Heads of Departments in Local Authorities, directors of large consultancies – or in this case, a senior planner embedded within a multidisciplinary team in a central government department.
Our planners met Michael at the DHSC on a busy, cold and bright Tuesday morning in London Victoria. The day started with introductions, orientation around the department and a short walk for coffee – a moment to take a breath before a packed timetable which included participating in the Healthy Places Team meeting, meeting Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy, joining a project meeting to develop guidance, and discussing how health can be better encapsulated as a thread running throughout town planning policy, legislation and delivery.
“It is very easy to get swept up on the treadmill of daily working life. The day gave me the opportunity to take that step back from day-to-day project delivery and remind myself what we seek to do as a profession- create healthier places. It is as simple as that.
I very much appreciated that we were given the opportunity to participate, not just to shadow. This included being able to critically review and input into design guidance. In doing so, reflect on the parameters within which we work. Crucially, we do not just work within the planning system, we have the opportunity to influence its outcomes for the benefit of people and the planet. What an opportunity that is!”
– Alannah Healey
“I was really impressed by the warm welcome we received from all members of the Healthy Places Team and by their desire to also learn from us as professionals. I am passionate about learning how to make towns, cities and rural areas more user-friendly for those with disabilities and long-term health problems; so seeing this in action in the team’s work spurred me on to keep going with this.”
– Jo Rogers
We are looking forward to sharing our insights from the day with the rest of the planning team – and to putting into practice what we’ve learnt to deliver excellent work for our clients and the public alike. We are also excited about the prospect of future collaboration with Michael, his team, and other public health professionals to champion the power of planning to facilitate healthier people and places. Many thanks to Michael and OHID for hosting us; and to the RTPI for facilitating this fascinating shadowing opportunity.
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