Evaluation of the obesity prevention scheme in North East Lincolnshire

Abstract

This document reports on evaluation work completed by University of Lincoln through the Department of Sport, Coaching and Exercise Science. It examines the success of the Obesity Prevention Scheme (OPS) which includes the ‘obesity trainers’. The research was funded by the Specialist Health Promotion Service. (Section 1.0) The research aimed to evaluate the success of the OPS by understanding the experiences and opinions of those directly involved with the scheme. To gain an understanding of community members, health professionals and local stakeholders a qualitative research methodology was employed. (Section 2.0) Headline findings from the evaluative research demonstrated achievement by 1) Capacity Building; Setting and securing the foundation for future work at community level by influencing local social capital. 2) Behaviour Change; positively changing individuals healthy behaviours, impacting on physical activity levels, psychological state and social environment (Section 3.0). The evaluation identified several elements of success with the work completed so far. However data suggested that a stronger strategic direction is necessary to assist in improving communication and marketing of current services. If this occurs it is hoped that service provision would be enhanced further as a result of sharing the anti-obesity agenda across North East Lincolnshire (Section 4.0)