The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is the UK government department responsible for leading, shaping and funding health and social care policy in England. It oversees the National Health Service (NHS), supports public health initiatives and works to strengthen the social care system. Led by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, DHSC sets policy on areas including health security, vaccines, medicines and healthcare services. The department works closely with a range of arm’s-length bodies and partners to improve health outcomes, support research and innovation, and ensure high-quality care for patients and communities across the country.