Five examples of intersectoral action for health at the local and regional level in Canada

This document describes and analyzes five Canadian experiences of intersectoral action for health linked to local and regional governments. The main objective of this text is to provide examples for institutions who may wish to draw inspiration from these previous experiences. It is intended equally for local and regional health organizations and for local policy makers and non-governmental organizations.

The cases presented are:

  • Vancouver’s Healthy City Strategy, in British Columbia;
  • A healthy built environments initiative, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan;
  • The Grey Bruce Healthy Communities Partnership, in Ontario;
  • The Table intersectorielle régionale en saines habitudes de vie (TIR-SHV), in the Mauricie region of Québec;
  • The Mobile Food Market initiative, in the Halifax region of Nova Scotia.

The origin and objectives of each case of intersectoral action for health are presented, along with the actors involved, examples of the actions implemented and an assessment of the activities. A comparative analysis of the cases, including lessons drawn from an examination of each case, is also included.

The main facilitating elements that emerged from an analysis of the cases are as follows:

  • Development of a clear strategy with shared objectives;
  • Strong support from municipal authorities and leaders;
  • Development of collaborative leadership;
  • Stability of the structures and organizations implicated in the partnership;
  • Stability of the funding mechanism.

These elements can facilitate intersectoral collaboration for health at the municipal and regional levels.

Five examples of intersectoral action for health at the local and regional level in Canada
ISBN (Digital)
978-2-550-86099-0 et 978-2-550-86098-3 (French version)
Santecom Number
Date de publication