Portrait of Health in All Policies in Canada: The Grey Bruce Public Health Experience in Fostering Healthy Communities

This publication introduces the Healthy Communities Partnership led by Grey Bruce Public Health, in Ontario, as an example of Health in All Policies (HiAP). This case summary is part of a series developed by the Canadian Network for Health in All Policies to document the current state and variety of HiAP initiatives being implemented in Canada. It is intended for public health actors and other actors interested in HiAP, and aims to advance knowledge of HiAP, highlight effective practices, and promote the exchange of ideas across Canada.

Key messages

• The Healthy Communities Partnership’s Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach highlights the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and community engagement in promoting health equity and fostering healthy communities.
• The Healthy Communities Partnership’s guiding principles involve equitable community engagement, intersectoral partnerships, political commitment, healthy public policy and asset-based community development.
• The Healthy Communities Partnership uses a Collective Impact Model that brings together municipalities, nongovernmental organizations and the community to address complex community health challenges through coordinated efforts and shared goals, breaking down silos.
• The Healthy Communities Partnership’s advocacy efforts include engaging community members, conducting educational campaigns, and influencing municipal decision-making in key areas like active transportation, poverty reduction, housing, and access to healthy food.