Printer-friendly version

The Health Protection Agency (HPA), the Association of London Environmental Health Managers (Alehm) and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) created the joint London environmental health post.

It is known that the work of local authorities varies greatly; including for investigation of infectious diseases. The causes of variation includes: population, local social factors, economic factors, available resources, and the relationship between Environmental Health Departments (EHDs) and Health Protection Units (HPUs).

This questionnaire explores barriers to good communication between London EHDs and HPUs; to identify issues surrounding the notification system; and to review existing gastrointestinal investigation procedures in London.

The results will contribute to making recommendations on common approaches for the investigation of gastrointestinal disease. It is also envisaged that the project will contribute to standards for investigation of notifiable gastrointestinal disease required for the 2012 London Olympics.

This questionnaire is being sent to all London Local Authority EHDs; and interviews are being conducted with the four London HPUs. Further work including liaison with members of similar projects being carried out across the UK, and with local government authorities whose regions may have learning points for London will also be undertaken.

This questionnaire should be completed by the lead Infectious Disease Officer within the Environmental Health Department, completed, and returned by 20th July 2009.

The findings of this study will be submitted to the London HPA, Alehm and the CIEH in a report; and made available to all contributing authorities. Any statements used in the report will not be linked to individuals or local authorities.