Overview
Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is a ministerial department of the UK Government responsible for health and adult social care policy and oversight in England. It supports ministers in leading the nation’s health and care system and aims to help people live more independent, healthier lives for longer. DHSC evolved from earlier government health bodies and now plays a central role in shaping health and social care frameworks and legislation.
Mission and focus areas
DHSC’s core mission is to develop, implement and oversee policies that improve public health outcomes, strengthen healthcare services, and ensure effective and sustainable social care systems. It leads national strategy on health policy, funds the National Health Service (NHS) and works with partner agencies to drive quality and performance improvements. While DHSC itself does not focus directly on sustainable finance or ESG (environmental, social and governance) frameworks, as a central government department it adheres to UK Government sustainability and reporting requirements that include guidance on sustainability reporting for central government bodies.
Structure and governance
DHSC is led by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and supported by ministers, senior civil servants and departmental staff. It operates through multiple directorates and oversees a network of agencies and arm’s-length bodies, such as NHS England, UK Health Security Agency and regulatory bodies, which deliver specialised functions within the broader health and care system. The department’s governance includes formal planning, accountability and reporting to Parliament.
Programs and offerings
DHSC produces policy documents, guidance and strategic plans that influence health and social care delivery across England. It issues official publications on policy priorities, funding allocations and service standards. The department also collaborates with public bodies to support research, regulatory oversight and system delivery. Its outputs include consultations, reports and frameworks that inform practitioners, policymakers and stakeholders across health and care sectors.
