C Newell

Alleviating Social Isolation and Loneliness among Older People

This study investigated the evidence base for health promotion interventions targeting social isolation and loneliness in older people. The research comprised: a systematic literature review, a survey of projects in northern England, and case studies involving interviews with staff and older people. The majority of projects were not evidence based with large variations in evaluation. The review identified a small number of relevant studies. Effective interventions targeted older people at risk and enabled participants some control over project activities. Older people differentiated between chronic and situational loneliness, and isolation versus loneliness, suggesting a need for different interventions. Many projects did not have strategies for identifying isolated, lonely older people. Access to activities intended to alleviate social isolation and loneliness among older people was often inequitable, tailored to participants? expectations, rather than to the needs of those most isolated and lonely. Many projects consulted older people superficially, providing activities, which did not necessarily meet the needs of isolated, lonely older people.

Participating in community research: exploring the experiences of lay researchers in Bradford

Considerable attention has been given in recent years to the merits of involving community members in the research process and the resulting benefits in terms of research outcomes. Far less is known about the experiences of individuals taking on the role of lay researchers within their own community. This research investigates the experiences of six young Asian women who, following training, undertook a community health needs assessment in a neighbourhood in Bradford. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Findings indicated that participating was overall a positive experience, having an impact on the women in two main ways. Firstly, a positive change in perception relating to their own capabilities and influence, resulting in increased confidence, self-esteem, and a greater understanding of the research process. Secondly, the women developed greater awareness of and interest in issues affecting their community coupled with greater empathy towards fellow residents, inspiring a determination to work towards achieving positive changes. However, the women expressed concerns that the needs assessment had raised expectations within the community and they would be held responsible for delivering change. Further research is recommended into the experiences of lay researchers, particularly the longer term impact of being involved both to themselves individually and the wider community.

Not another smoking survey! Healthy public policy and the need for local information

Abstract The development and implementation of healthy public policy has been a central concern of health promotion. The following paper details a study examining local opinion concerning the implementation of national guidelines into local policy regarding banning smoking in enclosed public places following the publication of the UK governments Public Health white paper. The aim of the study was to determine public opinion regarding the acceptability of banning smoking in public areas and the views of major stakeholders in the region. A public opinion survey was conducted with 859 people and semi-structured telephone interviews were held with 32 stakeholders. The study found that there was consistent support, amongst both the general public and the stakeholders, for banning smoking in public places. It also determined that stakeholders found the proposals of the Public Health white paper unclear and therefore difficult to implement. The paper concludes that a variety of support is needed for local policy implementation and makes suggestions for doing so, locating ideas within the literature.