Health-Related Behaviour Change Interventions
University of Bath: Fiona Gillison, Afroditi Stathi, Julie Barnett
University of Bristol: Anne Haase, Simon Sebire, Russ Jago
Cardiff University: Sharon Simpson, Graham Moore
University of Exeter: Jane R Smith (PI), Charles Abraham, Colin Greaves
Background
Multi-level interventions that generate lasting and widespread behaviour change are crucial for addressing growing public health concerns, such as obesity, and for enhancing population health and well-being. Recent policy, public health and methodological guidance documents identify the need for more robust, evidence- and theory-based development and comprehensive mixed-methods evaluations to enhance the underpinnings of such behaviour change interventions.
Project Summary
This project used a networking event to develop stronger and wider multi-disciplinary links between individuals and departments/groups involved in health-related behaviour change. This resulted in a greater awareness of current work, expertise, potential future research areas and funding opportunities. A subsequent bid development meeting helped to identify four key areas of research where future collaborative activities could be focused and confirmed a core group of collaborators.
A symposium on process evaluation at the UK Society for Behavioural Medicine conference showcased GW4 expertise in this area to coincide with the launch of new MRC guidance.